A new New-York Historical Society exhibit commemorates the 50th anniversary of "Title IX," an addition to the Education Amendments Act of 1972 that banned discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal assistance.
From now through September 4, you can see how activists and lawmakers helped secure the advantages of education for all students. On view in the Joyce B. Cowin Women’s History Gallery, the exhibition immerses visitors in the spaces shaped most profoundly by the legislation and highlights the crucial work of activists in demanding that their institutions and government live up to the law’s promises.
Four sections make up the exhibit.
"On the Hill and Bench," captures the legislative and legal battles over the boundaries of Title IX fought in the halls of Congress and the court system. You'll see an image of a third birthday party for Title IX and a “God Bless Title IX” pin-back button distributed by activists to supporters, politicians, and government staff to signal their support of the legislation.
“On Campus” features personal items related to student protests, from a Yale Women's Crew sweatshirt worn to a 1976 “strip-in” protest to flyers and signs made for demonstrations against sexual violence on campus.
In a space evoking a stadium, the next section explores the explosion of girls and women engaging in sports and fitness after the passage of Title IX. Artifacts from professional athletes and the consumer culture that arose to celebrate them—from Barbie dolls to Wheaties boxes.
“In the Classroom” includes items showing how Title IX was aided by parents, teachers, and schools that created new curricula challenging gender stereotypes, including children’s books and classroom materials from the 1970s to the present day.
To close the exhibition, there will be a celebration of the law’s accomplishments and a look at what still needs to be done.