SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT ARE BOTH NO-NOS UNTIL TITLE IX


The definition of sexual assault includes rape, but there are other examples, equalrights.org explains, including:

• inappropriate touching
• groping
• attempted rape
• forcing you to perform a sexual act
• penetrating any part of your body with a part of their body or with an object

 Sexual harassment, on the other hand, includes any behavior that is sexual, sex-based, or gender-based, regardless of the orientation, gender-identity, sexual interests or pleasure of the harasser. Sexual harassment might include:

• repeated requests for sexual favors or dates from a peer or from a teacher to a student
• inappropriate or lewd comments
• inappropriate or lewd comments about someone’s body or appearance
• comments about someone (or about a group of people) based on gender identity
• or sexuality
• jokes about sex
• unwanted emails, texts, messages, videos, or photos of a sexual nature
• gossip about someone’s personal relationships or sex life
• unwanted touching of any body part, clothing, face, or hair
• staring, leering, or making gestures of a sexual nature
• blocking someone’s way or their movement, especially in a physically threatening or intimidating way
• inappropriate touching, massaging, kissing, or hugging
• flashing or mooning
• vulgar pictures or pornography shown to you against your will

Title IX law

Title IX (“Title 9”) of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 makes discrimination based on gender illegal at schools, colleges, and school programs (including school-affiliated sports teams, programs, and clubs) and in any education program that receives federal funds. Sexual assault and sexual harassment are forms of gender discrimination under this law. The Title IX process is a type of student misconduct complaint which is investigated internally, and not connected to the criminal justice system.