November 26, 2018

Dear AU Community,

In light of the release by the U.S. Department of Education of proposed changes to federal regulations impacting campus sexual assault policies, we wish to affirm American University’s long-standing commitment to fair process and equity in Title IX cases.

We understand there is concern in our community around how changes in federal regulations may play out at AU. At present, the proposed changes to Title IX by the federal government are entering the mandated 60-day public comment period and have not been finalized. We are following the process closely, and the implications of any revisions to federal guidelines will be reviewed and discussed thoroughly with our community before any required changes would be implemented at AU.

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that applies to educational institutions that receive federal funding and protects people of all genders from discrimination based on sex or gender. It is one important way, though not the only way, that all members of our community are protected against sex- or gender-based discrimination, which includes sexual assault, harassment, dating and relationship violence, and stalking.

AU is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all students, staff and faculty. If you have questions or would like to speak to us about AU’s Title IX process, please email our Title IX Program Officer Regina Curran at titleIX@american.edu. Information and resources are available on AU’s Title IX webpage.

Sincerely,
Fanta Aw
Vice President of Campus Life & Inclusive Excellence
American University
campuslife@american.edu