On the Anniversary of Title IX

ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF TITLE IX -- (House of Representatives - June 23, 2005)

(Ms. LINDA T. SÁNCHEZ asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. LINDA T. SÁNCHEZ of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 33rd anniversary of title IX. Title IX creates opportunities for female athletes. Since its inception in 1972, female participation in sports has increased 400 percent in colleges and 800 percent in high schools. As a young girl, I played on several sports teams. These experiences fostered my love of competition. But they have far greater benefits. Girls who play sports are less likely to have an unplanned pregnancy, more likely to leave an abusive relationship, and are less likely to suffer from depression.

Unfortunately, under President Bush's administration, the Department of Education has created a huge title IX loophole. By bending title IX rules, it is now easier for schools to evade their responsibilities to provide opportunities for female athletes. It is wrong for this administration to reverse the progress made over the last three decades.

Tonight, I will be joining my colleagues in the annual congressional baseball game and when I join the line-up in RFK Stadium, I will be on the line for title IX.

Mr. President, I hope you can join us in supporting title IX by repealing these damaging new rules instead of slamming the door of opportunity in the face of women.

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