Title IX: Sex-Based Harassment and Discrimination

Institutional Commitment

Pasadena City College is committed to providing a learning and working environment free from harassment discrimination on the basis of sex. PCC recognizes the significant, unacceptable and nationwide existence of sexual harassment on college campuses, and the subsequent impact that harassment and discrimination can have. The college does not condone and will not tolerate sexual harassment or discrimination from any member of the college community. PCC is dedicated to:

Preventing sexual harassment and discrimination through campus-wide education and training
Taking all appropriate steps to eliminate and prevent the recurrence of sex-based harassment and discrimination
Addressing the effects of sex-based harassment and discrimination on individuals and the PCC community more broadly
Empowering individuals with information, supports, and resources to assist them in making informed decisions regarding their reporting and resource options
Delivering a fundamentally fair and equitable resolution process through the College for both Complainants and Respondents

Title IX: Federal Law

"No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance." –Title IX Educational Amendments of 1972

Title IX is a Federal Civil Rights law intended to end sex discrimination in all areas of education. This law applies to educational institutions which receive funds from the federal government, including Pasadena City College. This law outlines definitions and procedural requirements which PCC must follow with regards to policy and adjudication of sexual harassment cases. In accordance with Title IX law, prohibited behavior includes, but is not limited to the following, which are defined further in PCC’s policies:

Sexual Harassment
Sexual Assault
Stalking
Domestic Violence
Dating Violence
Discrimination on the basis of Sex, Gender, or Sexual Orientation (including Pregnancy Discrimination)

California State Law: Senate Bill 493

California Senate Bill 493 (SB493) is a state law which applies to all higher education institutions in California that receive state funding, including Pasadena City College. The law reinforces much of Title IX and Clery Act/VAWA § 304 requirements, and guarantees California students additional civil rights protections. PCC’s Title IX Coordinator and Title IX Investigator Manager are designated to coordinate PCC’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under SB493. In accordance with SB493, PCC’s policies incorporate definitions, training requirements, and due process protections outlined in the bill.

How the Title IX Office Can Help

PCC has professionals specially trained to receive complaints, connect parties with support, conduct equitable investigations and hearings, and assist individuals throughout the reporting and adjudication process. Once the College receives a report of an alleged violation of Title IX or sexual misconduct, the Title IX Coordinator, or designee, will reach out to the involved parties in order to promote safety and security, and help empower them with information about their options for moving forward. All support options are available regardless of whether or not someone chooses to file a formal complaint.

The Title IX Office can provide students, staff, and faculty with:

Assistance with understanding your rights, and resolution options through the College grievance procedures
Supportive measures in consultation with both campus and community partners, including but not limited to:
- Academic support (e.g. extensions of deadlines, alternative assignments)
- Campus safety escorts
- Class schedule modifications, withdrawals, or leaves of absence
- Implementing No Contact Orders between the parties
- Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus
- Modified work arrangements
- Referral to counseling, medical, and/or other healthcare services
- Referral to housing resources
- Referral to pro-bono or low-cost legal resources
- Referral to community-based victim service providers
- Referrals to visa and immigration assistance
- Safety planning
- Student financial aid counseling
- Transportation accommodations and resources
Assistance with understanding the criminal justice process and reporting option, as well as connection to law enforcement