Subject:

Update on New Federal Regulations on Title IX

Body:

Dear AU Community,

As you know, on April 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Education published new Title IX regulations that delineate how colleges and universities must respond to reports of sex discrimination and sex-based harassment. Since that time, we have been working to diligently review the new regulations, inform and engage the community about the changes, and draft a policy that complies with the new regulations. Those regulations went into effect on August 1, 2024.  

However, a recently issued injunction in one of the legal challenges to these new regulations impacts hundreds of universities, including American University, and prevents the Department of Education from enforcing the 2024 regulations with respect to those universities listed in the injunction.  As a result of this, American University must continue to comply with the 2020 Title IX regulations and the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy will remain in effect until further notice.  

We are working to make some updates and improvements to the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy to facilitate greater clarity for the community. We are also updating the Discrimination and Non-Title IX Sexual Misconduct Policy. As a reminder, that policy complies with local and federal nondiscrimination laws and under D.C. Human Rights law, protected categories are more expansive than what is covered under federal law and includes a prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The updates to these policies will be circulated to campus stakeholders prior to going into effect. 

We remain committed to working together to ensure a welcoming environment for our community. As we continue to strengthen our resources and connect on related updates, we will continue to focus on education, equitable processes and ongoing community engagement. 

Thank you to all of you for your engagement this summer as we worked to craft a new policy and procedures compliant with the 2024 Title IX regulations. As we wait for a resolution from the courts, we will continue to seek input from campus stakeholders.  

Best,

Dr. Nkenge Friday 
Vice President of Inclusive Excellence 

Leslie T. Annexstein 
Assistant Vice President for Equity and Title IX Coordinator