Boise State Seeks Gender Equality
By Je T'aime Davis, arbiteronline.com, December 08, 2005

In an effort to remain in compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1965, Boise State is in the "conversation stage" of an in-depth process to add another women's sport to its athletic department roster. This cyclical process is not unusual and not restricted to colleges and universities. Adding, disbanding or developing sports within federally-funded colleges, universities and high schools began when Congress passed the law known as "Title IX" as an amendment to the Civil Rights Act in 1972.

Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity conducted in an institution receiving federal financial assistance. However, the strongest outcome of the amendment is in the field of athletics…During passage of Title IX, proponents revealed an argument stating the low participation was due to lack of opportunity and support, not lack of interest. Title IX is not meant to displace men's sports. In fact, it pushes for gender equity, defined in proportionate opportunities. In other words, if a high school is representing 30 percent female enrollment, then 30 percent of the athletic opportunity should be geared toward females.

At Boise State, the male-to-female ratio is nearly 40 to 60. This means athletics must be near 40 percent to 60 percent, as well. Boise State has not yet met that mark; however, the university is well on its way. According to the plan developed by the Gender Equity Subcommittee at Boise State, the university's goal is to add a new women's sport every five years. In addition, the plan provides for the development of existing women's sports. The last action taken was in 2004 when women's skiing added a Nordic component. In essence, Boise State is ahead of the game according to the university's own plan.

Full article can be seen at http://www.arbiteronline.com/vnews/display.v/ART/2005/12/08/4397b22c8edc6