As I read about the Biden administration’s decision to roll back the Betsy DeVos Title IX rules, a wave of relief washed over me. The regulations set forth during DeVos’ tenure were deeply troubling, as they narrowly defined sexual harassment and allowed for live hearings where the accused could cross-examine their accusers. This practice had the potential to discourage victims of sexual misconduct from coming forward, perpetuating a culture of fear and silence. President Biden’s promise to scrap these rules signals a step in the right direction towards creating a safer and more equitable educational environment.

The new rule proposed by the administration will protect students and employees from sex-based discrimination, including sexual violence and other forms of harassment. It calls for schools to have support measures in place for individuals making complaints and ensures that all forms of discrimination complaints are treated equitably and promptly. Additionally, the rule codifies protections for transgender students and prohibits discrimination against LGBTQ individuals based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. These measures are crucial in fostering an inclusive and supportive educational setting for all.

While these aspects of the new rule are commendable, there are some points that give me pause. The removal of live hearings and the ability for the accused to cross-examine their accusers raises concerns regarding due process. I believe in the importance of providing a fair and thorough process for all parties involved in sexual misconduct cases. While I understand the need to protect victims and ensure their safety, we must also strive for balance and fairness in the adjudication of these complex and sensitive issues.

Reflecting on Betsy DeVos’ tenure as Secretary of Education, it becomes apparent that her lack of qualifications and questionable motives had a detrimental impact on our education system. Her actions seemed to prioritize private interests over public good, undermining the very fabric of our educational institutions. The decision to roll back her policies is a necessary step in rectifying the damage done and setting a new course towards progress and inclusivity.

As I consider the implications of this rollback, I am reminded of the importance of advocacy and activism in shaping policies that reflect our values and priorities. By holding our leaders accountable and pushing for change, we can ensure that our education system is built on principles of equity, safety, and justice. I am hopeful that the Biden administration’s commitment to reversing harmful regulations like those of DeVos will pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all students and employees. The decision by the Biden administration to roll back the Betsy DeVos Title IX rules comes as a critical step towards rectifying the damage caused during DeVos’ tenure as Secretary of Education. These rules, which narrowly defined sexual harassment and allowed for procedures that could discourage victims from coming forward, were clearly problematic and failed to uphold the principles of equity and justice in our education system.

The new rule proposed by the administration demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all students and employees. By protecting individuals from sex-based discrimination, including sexual violence, and ensuring equitable treatment of all forms of discrimination complaints, the administration’s actions signal a positive shift towards prioritizing the well-being of those within our educational institutions.

While the protections outlined in the new rule are commendable, there are concerns regarding the removal of live hearings and the ability for the accused to cross-examine their accusers. Upholding due process and fairness in the adjudication of sexual misconduct cases is crucial, and striking a balance between protecting victims and ensuring a fair process for all parties involved is essential.

Reflecting on DeVos’ tenure and her questionable motives, it becomes clear that her policies were detrimental to our education system. The prioritization of private interests over public good underscored the need for a change in direction. By rolling back these harmful regulations, the Biden administration is taking a significant step towards addressing past injustices and charting a course towards progress and inclusivity.

As we navigate this period of change, it is important to recognize the power of advocacy and activism in shaping policies that reflect our values and priorities. Holding our leaders accountable and pushing for reforms that uphold principles of equity, safety, and justice is paramount in ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for all individuals within our education system. The Biden administration’s commitment to reversing damaging policies like those of Betsy DeVos is a hopeful sign of positive change on the horizon.