Louise Slaughter: “in 1972, about 30,000 women played college sports. Today, that number has increased by more than 500 percent. In 1972…”

“in 1972, about 30,000 women played college sports. Today, that number has increased by more than 500 percent. In 1972, about 200,000 girls played high school sports. Today, that number has increased by more than 80 percent. Mr. Speaker, it is no coincidence that women and girls have more opportunity today than they did 30 years ago. That is not because they have more interest than they used to, and it is not because they have more ability than they used to. The increased opportunities are attributable to one law, Title IX. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is the Federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education. It states: ``No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.'' In essence, Title IX requires schools and colleges receiving Federal funds to give women and girls equal athletic opportunities, including athletic scholarships, equipment, coaching and facilities, among other benefits. Unfortunately, Title IX has come under assault.”