Stand Up Against Education Discrimination

Gender Discrimination in Athletics

A female high school student wants to join the school's wrestling team. She’s an experienced athlete, and the school allows students of all genders to try out—on paper.

But when the young woman shows up for practice, the coach tells her:

“We don’t have a girls’ wrestling team, and it wouldn’t be appropriate for you to wrestle with boys.”

Despite being qualified, the young woman is denied the opportunity to participate because she’s a girl. Meanwhile, the school funds and promotes several all-boys teams but has no comparable programs for girls.

This Violates Title IX

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity that receives federal funding—including sports. Denying the young woman a chance to try out, or failing to offer comparable athletic opportunities for girls, is likely a Title IX violation.

How we can help...

We will provide a safe, confidential space for the student to share their story. We help them understand they have rights—and they’re not alone.

We will explain their legal rights under Title IX

• Report the discrimination to a school official or Title IX coordinator.

• File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

• Seek support from a civil rights advocate or legal group specializing in educational equity.