Title IX’s interpretation has significantly evolved in the last fifteen years, reflecting the priorities of the current presidential administration. One of Title IX’s most contentious topics since the Biden administration has been protections for LGBTQIA+ students, particularly in gender identity and sexual orientation. In 2024, Biden expanded federal guidance to include protections for transgender students, such as the right to use facilities and to participate in sports consistent with their gender.

However, President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to immediately remove these protections. In 2025, supporting transgender and queer students will become a critical aspect of creating safe educational environments, perhaps more so than ever. 

Here is how Title IX Coordinators can support LGBTQIA+ students while remaining compliant with emerging changes in federal law:

Foster Inclusive Environments

Title IX Coordinators play a vital role in cultivating environments where all students feel safe, supported, and respected, especially in work and education. These initiatives aim to address the unique challenges faced by transgender and queer students such as bullying, misgendering, and lack of access to affirming facilities, which undoubtedly threaten their mental health. Title IX professionals can implement initiatives to welcome and support LGBTQIA+ students:

• Pronouns and Names: Encourage the use of correct names and pronouns for all students, and share or display your own. Collaborate with school registrars to ensure systems accommodate names and genders.
• Gender-Inclusive Facilities: Implement access to gender-inclusive restrooms, locker rooms, and housing options.
• Training and Education: Provide regular training for faculty, staff, and students on LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of respectful interactions and recognizing biases.

Strengthen Support Networks

LGBTQIA+ students often benefit from robust support systems that address their academic, social, and emotional needs. Title IX Coordinators can strengthen these networks by connecting students with affirming resources and fostering community partnerships. Examples of this connection include:

• Student Organizations: Support the establishment and growth of LGBTQIA+ student organizations and alliances, and train other student organizations about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within their own groups. 
• Counseling Services: Partner with mental health professionals trained in LGBTQIA+ issues to provide affirming counseling services. Consider creating specific support groups and events for students within this community.
• Campus and Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local advocacy groups and organizations to offer additional resources and programming. Partner with any relevant campus offices that can further support LGBTQIA+ students. 

Build Trust Through Accountability

Students and staff are more likely to engage with Title IX processes when they trust the institution’s commitment to fairness and inclusion. Transparency and accountability are key to building this trust.

• Incident Reporting: Create accessible and confidential mechanisms for students to report incidents of discrimination or harassment.
• Regular Updates: Provide the campus community with regular updates on initiatives, policy changes, and public data.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Implement channels for students and stakeholders to provide feedback on Title IX practices and policies.

How We Can Help

For up-to-date information on all Title IX changes and how they affect you and your institution, join us for Title IX Thursdays on the first Thursday of every month. For more information about our Title IX consulting services, including advising, hearing adjudication, and investigation, contact us at [email protected].