John Kerry's position on

Title IX: Title IX was introduced in 1972 and requires federally funded schools and colleges to ensure gender equity in educational opportunities. The increase of female participation in athletics is the most visible benefit of Title IX. The law has also increased female participation in post-undergraduate degrees, and the math and science fields. In 2002 the Bush Administration convened the "Opportunity in Athletics Commission." This group, situated under the Department of Education was charged with analyzing the 30 year old Title IX. Since the inception of the "Opportunity in Athletics Commission" many feminist organizations have launched "Save Title IX" campaigns.

Description of the candidate's position: John Kerry supports Title IX. He recognizes that for 30 years Title IX has extended opportunities for women.

Quotation from the candidate: According to the Kerry website "American women and girls make enormous contributions in education, industry, public service and athletics, thanks in large part to opportunities extended by Title IX. Our nation is stronger, smarter and more competitive because women and girls are playing a larger role in every aspect of our national life. The success of Title IX shows that when women are empowered, they can achieve amazing things. That is great cause for celebration on the 32nd anniversary of Title IX." (link) He then states, "I will embrace Title IX, vigorously enforce it, and look for new ways to tap the talents of women and girls to help our nation excel." (link) 

Assessment of the proposal: Kerry claims to support Title IX and plans to defend it as president. His policy rhetoric does not specifically outline how he would defend Title IX, but he does vow to look for new ways to utilize the talents of women.

Positive: Kerry's outspoken support for Title IX will bode well with feminist organizations that have launched "Save Title IX" campaigns.

Negative: Opponents of Title IX feel it is responsible for reverse discrimination in athletics. They claim boy's and men's wrestling, gymnastics and swimming teams are being slighted by Title IX's equity mandates. According to a report by the National Women's Law Center and the Harvard School of Public Health finds, "failures to provide girls with teams, harassment of girls who played on boys' teams, teams where no girls' teams were offered, poor quality of facilities" in Kerry's home state of Massachutes. link 

Comparison: George Bush's 2004 campaign rhetoric does not specifically address Title IX. He did, however, form a Commission in 2002 to review and weaken Title IX. Kerry vows to support and enforce Title IX. Each candidate has very distinct plans for Title IX. Kerry plans to support and enforce, while Bush convenes Commissions to weaken the law.

Link to Bush's issue page