Talking Title IX in Maine

April 3, 2023
Author events LGBT Office for Civil Rights Sports Title IX

Join me for three events this week in the Pine Tree State, where I’ll be talking about Title IX in Maine.

The Portland Press Herald published a Commentary by me with a preview of some of what I’ll say. (And in case you missed it, here’s an earlier version published March 24 by the Concord Monitor.) The rights of transgender students to play school sports is one big topic, of course — see the latest news below under “Elsewhere.” It helps to have an understanding of Title IX history to talk about this issue intelligently and compassionately. And we’ll also explore the movements against sexual harassment and sexual violence in schools under Title IX, which unfortunately generate ongoing controversies. I hope to see some of you at one of these:

Wednesday, April 5, 6 p.m. — Join me at Baxter Memorial Library in Gorham to discuss Title IX’s fascinating history and current events. Staff from The Bookworm will be on hand to sell books.

Thursday, April 6, 12:30-1:30 p.m. — I’m looking forward to addressing lawyers and students in the Maine Women’s Law Association, at the University of Maine School of Law, Portland. This is not an event for the general public, so come the night before to Baxter Memorial Library, or meet me this same night in Rockland…

Thursday, April 6, 5:30 p.m. — Let’s talk Title IX and the women’s movement in general at the wonderful Hello Hello Books, 316 Main Street, Rockland, with special guests from the Maine Women’s Lobby.

Elsewhere

Politico reported today in its Weekly Education newsletter about upcoming federal action related to transgender students’ rights: “Last week, the Education Department sent its proposed Title IX rule on athletics participation to the White House Office of Management and Budget, a key procedural step to unveiling the policy that’s expected to safeguard transgender students’ right to play on sports teams consistent with their gender identity. And, the administration’s Title IX final rule on sexual misconduct, which would bar discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, might be released as early as May.” On the flip side, House Republicans may soon bring their bill that would restrict transgender athlete participation [H.R. 734 (118)] to the full House for a vote.