I spent the afternoon at a women's college softball game. It was awesome in and of itself--incredible athleticism, a fast paced game, and beautiful view in a beautiful stadium--but it was especially awesome today because there were dozens of youth league girls' softball teams there. The girls' teams, including my daughter's team, were invited to come and get a tour of the stadium facilities, and stand on the field during the national anthem. I got misty eyed seeing all the young girls on the field, flanked by these incredible college athletes. I was so proud of this team, too, for the togetherness they showed on the field and the respect they showed their opponents. It was a great experience, and one I thanked Title IX for.
But, although women's participation in college sports has increased by some 440% since Title IX, there is still a big gap. According to the Women's Sports Foundation, "women comprise 57 percent of the college student population but receive only 43 percent of the college athletic opportunities. Besides fighting for access to athletic participation opportunities, female athletes continue to face barriers in sports, such as in the treatment and benefits they receive when they do compete."
So we'll keep fighting for compliance, and better oversight by the OCR, even while we're watching the progress with joy and pride.
Borrowed this great graphic from our friends at the ACLU.
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