Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["S. Daniel Carter" <>]

Clarifying Title IX, VAWA, and Clery Act Definitions: A Guide for Schools

Recent updates to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) have caused some confusion regarding how schools should define domestic violence for Title IX compliance. Here's a breakdown to ensure clarity:

The Issue:

• The VAWA 2022 definition of domestic violence includes non-violent offenses.
• The 2024 Title IX Rule, however, uses a narrower definition.

 

The Reassurance:

• The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has clarified that schools can continue using the existing definitions from the Clery Act (2015) to comply with Title IX.
• These Clery Act definitions remain clear and enforceable.

 

Why the Separate Definitions?

• The broader VAWA definition applies specifically to programs receiving VAWA grants, which offer victim services not available under Title IX.
• Title IX focuses on creating a safe learning environment, free from discrimination on the basis of sex.

 

What Schools Should Do:

• Refer to the Clery Act (2015) definitions for domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking when implementing Title IX policies and procedures.
• Remember, schools cannot modify these definitions.

 

Resources:

• https://safecampuses.biz/understanding-the-2024-title-ix-rule-definition-of-domestic-violence/

 

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S. Daniel Carter, President

Safety Advisors for Educational Campuses, LLC

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