In June of 1972, President Nixon signed the Education Amendments Act of 1972, which included Title IX, prohibiting sexual discrimination in any institution receiving federal funding. Title IX is, effectively, an amendment to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. While the Civil Rights Act ended discrimination in places of employment and public accommodation, it did not include institutions that might receive federal funding. And although Title VI of the original act did cover discrimination in these institutions, it left out sex as a potential discriminator. Today, it is best known as the amendment that grants women and girls the right to participate in high school and college athletics.
When President Nixon signed into law the Education Amendments Act of 1972, few knew just how consequential Title IX would be. In just 37 words, Title IX launched a revolution in women’s sports.
Save the date for next one: Saturday, June 19, 2027
The Nixon 5K for Title IX is an annual community race hosted by the Richard Nixon Foundation, held each June at the Nixon Presidential Library & Museum. First run in 2022 to honor the 50th anniversary of Title IX — the equal-opportunity legislation President Nixon signed into law — the event has grown into a beloved Yorba Linda tradition celebrating women and girls in sports. The family-friendly morning includes a scenic 5K along the El Cajon Trail, a 1K Kids Run, finisher medals, age-group awards, and a vendor expo.
To commemorate the triumph of women in athletic, political and business arenas, the Nixon Library unveiled a new permanent exhibit. “Evening the Odds: Women Leading the Way” showcases the many milestone achievements of women from the 1960s to today. Detailed, behind-the-scenes accounts shed new light on President Nixon’s role in ensuring women had more representation in the executive branch in his administration and take a special look at the lasting impact of Title IX on women’s sports at public schools and universities. The Honorable Barbara Franklin officially opened the exhibit during a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX on July 23, 2022.
18001 Yorba Linda Blvd,
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
