Considering the Future of Gender Equity at Title IX Week
Students organized a week of events to reflect on Title IX, a law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded schools, and discuss the future of gender equity. Four members of the Title IX Working Group reflect on the experience.
Sivagami Lakshmanan ’26
When I reflect on my decision to join the Title IX working group, I think of my professional journey in an industry deeply entrenched in patriarchy. In my previous workplace, I witnessed firsthand how the environment prevented individuals from bringing their whole selves to work. This not only stifled personal growth but also hindered the collective potential of teams. As one of the youngest yet longest-serving female members of my team, I found myself in a position where colleagues and even managers turned to me for guidance in creating a more inclusive atmosphere. These experiences ignited a passion in me to actively foster environments where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to deliver their best.
I brought this drive with me to Yale. I wanted to contribute to making SOM—and Yale as a whole—a place where everyone feels comfortable and has a sense of belonging. Joining the Title IX Committee provided me with an opportunity to turn this vision into action. The work we’ve done, such as initiatives like the “Stall Street Journals,” has been instrumental in sparking conversations around Title IX and its importance in creating a safer and more inclusive environment.
One of the most impactful moments for me from Title IX Awareness Week was engaging with “Voices,” an SOM tradition in which people share personal stories and experiences related to Title IX issues. Hearing these stories deeply resonated with me and reinforced my commitment to this work. It reminded me of the importance of amplifying diverse perspectives and ensuring that everyone feels heard and supported.
Title IX Awareness Week at SOM exemplifies how Yale prioritizes education and dialogue on critical issues like gender-based discrimination and sexual misconduct. By expanding outreach efforts and involving more people in these conversations, we are collectively working towards a safer, more equitable society. Together, we are building a community that not only meets but exceeds expectations for inclusivity and respect—one where everyone can thrive without fear or barriers.
Delia Reyes Delgado ’25
During my first visit to SOM, Victoria Bush ’23, then co-chair of the Title IX Working Group, gave me my first introduction to Title IX and its community impact. As an international student, this was my initial exposure to the topic. Later, during my first weeks at SOM, I met Cheryl Zhang ’24, who formally introduced me to the working group. The group’s mission immediately resonated with me.
Serving as co-chair myself this year, I was honored to lead Title IX Awareness Week. This year, I wanted our focus to extend beyond SOM, demonstrating that regardless of the current U.S. administration or our roles across industries, we can be catalysts for change and create safer environments. For me, Title IX Week transcends DEI initiatives. I believe that subtle shifts in attitudes within our social circles are crucial steps toward meaningful change. The engagement and thoughtful discussions this year have reinforced the importance of our work in building a better SOM.
Simran Simran ’26
For me, Title IX is about fostering a culture of belonging—ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, feels safe, valued, and empowered in this community. This week was an opportunity to lean in, listen, and learn from the experiences of others, gaining a deeper understanding of how legislation like Title IX have shaped not just policies, but careers and lives. A highlight for me was the powerful documentary 37 Words, which traced the origins of Title IX at Yale, reminding us of the resilience and advocacy that paved the way for progress. This week reinforced that inclusion is not just an ideal but a responsibility—one that we must actively uphold in our time at SOM and beyond.
Ellie Utter ’26
Title IX Awareness Week reminded me why I’m so proud to be at SOM—because people here truly care about being part of an equitable and inclusive community. As a Title IX committee leader, I’ve been amazed by the engagement from our community throughout the year, and this week reinforced just how committed people are to being part of that change. On Monday, I had the opportunity to share my experience as an advocate for survivors of sexual violence. I was moved by the number of community members who showed up—not just to listen, but to actively engage, ask insightful questions, and think critically about how we can improve our own campus culture.
The momentum only grew throughout the week, especially when Yale’s Title IX coordinator, Elizabeth Conklin, emphasized how student voices and lived experiences shape policy. The week ended on a high note, with a huge turnout to cheer on the Yale women’s hockey team in their win against Dartmouth. From deep reflection to joyous celebration, Title IX Awareness Week captured a full range of emotions, and I was grateful to be part of every moment. But the work doesn’t stop here. As we analyze Campus Climate Survey data and push for initiatives that strengthen safety and inclusion, we are reminded that lasting change doesn’t happen overnight. It happens when we show up, engage, and hold ourselves accountable, just as we did throughout this week.
