Title IX and Abuse on Campus
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity that receives federal funding. This includes most schools, including private institutions and grades K-12. Title IX addresses sexual harassment, sexual violence, or any gender-based discrimination that may deny a person access to educational benefits and opportunities.
Know Your Rights
As a college student, you are entitled to a safe environment that is responsive to incidents of sexual violence. Your school is required to protect your rights as a student:
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You have the right to an education free from dating abuse, sexual harassment and sexual violence. Under a federal law called Title IX, most schools have a legal obligation to take immediate action to eliminate dating abuse, prevent it and address its effect. But first you have to report the abuse to the school!
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You have the right to know about reported incidents of sexual violence on your campus. The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding in the United States to annually report campus crime statistics.
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This information should include reported dating abuse, sexual assault/harassment.
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Your campus must inform students on a yearly basis and when a crime has been committed on campus. Some do it via email or text.
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You have the right to clear school policies about sexual violence. The Campus Sexual Assault Victim’s Bill of Rights requires schools to provide a policy that includes:
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Procedures for reporting incidents and information about disciplinary proceedings, including the right to know their outcome.
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Information about law enforcement, counseling services and how to change your class schedule and residence.
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You have the right to confidentiality and information. The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act prohibits schools from releasing names or information about you or the person you’ve accused of assaulting you. However, schools may release an assailant’s name once s/he has been found guilty or responsible for a sexually violent act.
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In New York, you have the right to information about sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking. Under New York State Education Law, schools must:
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Clearly state the penalties and procedures for addressing these offenses and say how they will alert students about them.
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Have support services available for victims.
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Here are some examples of abuse and ways a person may react to it:
Day One helps young people recognize the signs of abusive relationships, so they can make healthy choices from day one of dating. We provide free legal and social services, educational workshop and organizing opportunities to teens and young adults aged 24 and under who are experiencing intimate partner abuse.
Call Day One at 800.214.4150 to talk to someone about your options. You can text us at 646.535.DAY1 (3291), or email us at info@dayoneny.org. It’s free and confidential.
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