In a recent email obtained by The Guardian, it was revealed that a graduate school within the City University of New York (CUNY) system has made changes that could potentially jeopardize the rights of pregnant students. The CUNY Graduate Center, home to over 3,000 doctoral and master’s degree students, announced that they would be rolling back protections designed to safeguard pregnant students’ rights. This move was prompted by a recent policy shift by the Trump administration, which has far-reaching implications for educational institutions across the United States.
Implications of the Policy Change
Under the new guidelines at the CUNY Graduate Center, employees are no longer mandated to provide pregnant students with the contact information for the coordinator responsible for enforcing Title IX compliance. Title IX, a law enacted in 1972 to prevent sex discrimination in federally funded education programs, is a crucial protection for students nationwide. Additionally, employees are no longer required to inform pregnant students of their rights under Title IX. This change places a significant burden on pregnant students, who may now need to navigate complex regulations without the necessary support.
The email from the office of the Graduate Center’s president stated that while employees are not obligated to provide specific information to pregnant students, they are encouraged to assist students in accessing the resources they need. However, the lack of formal guidelines raises concerns about the consistency and reliability of support available to pregnant students at the institution. A spokesperson for CUNY confirmed that these policy changes will be implemented system-wide, affecting all colleges within the university system.
In addition to the changes affecting pregnant students, the email also mentioned that fewer employees would be required to report incidents that could constitute sexual misconduct to the Title IX coordinator. This reduction in reporting obligations could potentially lead to a decrease in the accountability and transparency surrounding sexual misconduct cases on campus.
Expert Perspectives on the Policy Shift
The Trump administration’s decision to revert to 2020 regulations regarding Title IX has sparked outrage among advocates for sexual assault survivors and pregnant individuals. The 2020 regulations, criticized for their restrictive nature and diminished protections for survivors, have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students on college campuses. The move has been seen as a step backward in the fight against sexual misconduct and gender discrimination in educational settings.
Emma Grasso Levine, a senior manager of Title IX policy and programs at Advocates for Youth, expressed disappointment in the administration’s decision to roll back protections for pregnant individuals. She emphasized that these changes are contrary to the administration’s claims of supporting family values and women’s rights. Levine highlighted the importance of upholding protections for pregnant and parenting students to ensure their access to education and a safe learning environment.
Josia Klein, counsel at the National Women’s Law Center, emphasized that Title IX serves as a baseline for civil rights in educational institutions. Despite the rollback of certain regulations, Klein stressed that schools have the autonomy to maintain higher standards of protection and support for pregnant and parenting students. By adhering to best practices outlined in the 2024 regulations, schools can uphold the principles of non-discrimination and inclusivity, creating a more equitable environment for all students.
While CUNY’s policy changes may be unique, other educational institutions are grappling with similar challenges in the wake of federal policy shifts. The California Department of Education, for instance, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting students from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, despite changes at the federal level. The uncertainty surrounding federal guidelines has created confusion among schools, leaving students vulnerable to gaps in protection and support.
As students navigate the complexities of changing policies and regulations, it is essential for educational institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of all students. By upholding the principles of Title IX and fostering a culture of inclusivity, schools can create a supportive environment where all students can thrive. The impact of policy changes on pregnant individuals underscores the importance of advocating for robust protections and resources to ensure equitable access to education for all.
