Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

Title IX and other equal opportunity legislation and affirmative action policies continue to have a significant impact on bringing more diverse women into STEM fields. Title IX, by mandating equal access to educational opportunities and protecting women and girls from discrimination and sexual harassment, strengthens diversity efforts in STEM fields. Support for Title IX, and other legal instruments, is critical for bringing about needed institutional and policy changes. The American Association of University Women recommends government agencies such as NASA, the Department of Defense and Department of Education be required to conduct Title IX compliance reviews, ensuring that part of their funding is invested in updating and improving STEM programs. Encouraging equal opportunities is necessary to ensure that women are able to pursue science and math trajectories in business, industry, health and other relevant fields.