Jill Biden marks 50th anniversary of Title IX

US First Lady Jill Biden joined women's professional tennis icon Billie Jean King and an All-American high school track athlete to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Title IX in Washington Wednesday. The legislation was enacted in 1972 and prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex in federally funded education programs. It is credited with promoting gender equity in sports and advancing opportunities for millions of American women since then.

Jill Biden, U.S. First Lady said “Here in the United States, millions of girls have grown up, able to play sports, to build self-reliance and self-esteem, to learn teamwork and leadership. And they've been able to get scholarships that put college within their reach. Our schools have created opportunities for women to learn and safe spaces that help them fight back against discrimination and sexual violence.”

Title IX is one of the most important pieces of legislation of the 20th century. It is a law that speaks to the importance of gender equity in this country. It stands as a benchmark of global significance.

Billie Jean King, Former Professional Tennis Champion said  “Let's use this milestone anniversary to re-energize, re-energize our focus on strengthening and advancing equity and opportunity for all girls and women, but especially those who have been left behind by the law, including girls of color, girls with disabilities, trans athletes, and all LGBTQ+ youth. We have to look forward."

The first lady also lauded the State Department's Global Sports Mentoring Program, now celebrating its 10th anniversary.