The gender and sexuality alliance (GSA) recently hosted a discussion on Title IX policies at Wilkes. The talk included the civil rights law, its implementation and what the future of those policies may look like at Wilkes, especially for LGBTQ+ students.
Elizabeth Leo, Wilkes’ Title IX Coordinator, led the presentation and discussion of Title IX. Leo has been at Wilkes for over a year, and in that time, she has been able to talk to individuals and resolve the issues before it turned into a hearing.
“It has come to my attention that the LGBTQ+ community has to beg and plead for everything they can get,” said Leo.
Title IX protection is for every student, not just LGBTQ+ students. However, as of 2021, the Supreme Court recognized that sexual orientation is a protected class under Title VII, and under the Biden administration, there are new proposed protections.
“What I always preach to everyone is that I would much rather someone come to me with something before waiting for something worse to happen,” said Leo.
In these conversations, Leo speaks to the individuals involved, and explains how their behavior is being received by the other person. She is also able to talk about boundaries and the education process.
“If something makes you uncomfortable, let me know about it,” said Leo. She wants students to understand that even if something seems minor, they should not have to put up with it. Instead of it becoming a full-blown conversation, it can be more educational and create awareness.
Morgan Steiner, president of GSA and sophomore political science major, explained the importance of this discussion.
“I think that a lot of us don’t have a solid understanding on what Title IX is so it’s important to hear it be discussed and what Wilkes does, and what is legally required because it’s clear we go above and beyond,” said Steiner.
Leo wants all students to understand that even if something isn’t technically categorized under Title IX, they are still willing and able to help them. If students ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, Leo advises students to come and talk to her, or one of her colleagues.
“The biggest takeaway is that Elizabeth Leo and our Title IX office (are) more than willing to talk with you on any issues you face on campus—even if you don’t think it falls under Title IX, there is that outlet in administration for you,” said Steiner.
Claire Wynne, vice president of GSA and senior environmental engineering major, thought of her personal experiences, using them to demonstrate the importance of the discussion.
“As a member of the LGBTQ+ community on campus, I’ve encountered my fair share of discrimination and harassment and ridicule, and it’s important for people to know who they can reach out to, the legal protection they have and the resources available,” said Wynne.
Leo explained that “it’s the how you feel that matters,” and that the technical, more complicated aspects of Title IX are there to determine what road to take in order for her to help in the most effective way.
“The biggest takeaways are the ease of approaching Title IX. They can deal with problems of all different sizes; they are there for the students; and they want to help us and that they are looking to improve and get better,” said Wynne.
Leo can be reached through email at [email protected]. She encourages students to make an appointment and meet in a place where they feel comfortable and safe. Her office is located in Weckesser Hall on the second floor, though students are encouraged to email or call ahead to schedule an appointment.