Proposed Title IX Regulations
Jan. 24, 2019
Dear Brandeisians,
On Jan. 23, Brandeis joined with 54 other Massachusetts colleges and universities to submit comments to the U.S. Department of Education with respect to its proposed Title IX regulations. Brandeis and other area colleges collaborated with the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) to submit a comprehensive statement that comports with Brandeis’ values of creating and ensuring a safe and welcoming campus environment, free from discrimination and harassment. You can read the AICUM submission as a PDF.
I am concerned that the overly prescriptive model proposed by the Department of Education will not best serve our students or our community. The comments submitted by AICUM on behalf of Brandeis and other Massachusetts schools emphasize the importance of allowing colleges and universities to craft procedures that consider the unique characteristics of their own communities while ensuring equity, fairness, and respect for all.
The AICUM comments reflect Brandeis’ beliefs that the Title IX disciplinary process should be prompt and effective, fair to all parties, and structured in a way that best meets the needs of our community. In order to accomplish these objectives, the Title IX regulations should allow universities discretion in determining the appropriate investigative models for resolving complaints and not attempt to impose a “one size fits all” process on all schools.
Brandeis is firmly committed to ensuring that all members of our community can study and work in an environment free from sexual harassment and discrimination. I believe that these comments reflect that commitment.
Sincerely,
Ron