Part 1 in a series on Prevention. Register for our April training series on Prevention.

We all know that barriers to reporting Title IX matters exist. Barriers come in many forms, and at ICS, we think of them falling into one of two categories: institutional barriers and personal barriers.

Institutional barriers are things schools, districts, or institutions do or fail to do that actively hinder individuals from reporting their concerns. These include failing to properly train the community on how and what to report, improperly addressing retaliation, or having inadequate policies or procedures. Institutional barriers arise when schools fail to comply with the Title IX regulations, are inconsistent with their implementation, or fail to be transparent, both globally and with those engaged in the process.

Personal barriers can also impact Title IX reporting. These include anticipated negative social reactions, fear of not being believed, cultural and societal norms, and many other personal factors that participants bring with them.

Schools have a great responsibility to limit or prevent barriers to reporting as much as possible. While many of these barriers were outlined and addressed in the preamble to the now-vacated 2024 regulations, the foundational themes highlighted there can still be helpful in guiding our process and analysis of potential barriers.

Here are a few considerations in addressing these potential barriers:

1. Do not let the numbers fool you. Unfortunately, the number of reports do not always accurately reflect the health of a school. If a school has a low number of reports, that does not necessarily mean that there are no Title IX violations happening there. It may mean that potential reporters do not know how or what to report or do not believe they will be taken seriously. Likewise, a large number of reports from one school or program should not be ignored, as more prevention efforts may need to be implemented, such as training on consent.

2. Transparency is kindness. At ICS, one of our mantras is “transparency is kindness.” This is true from an institutional perspective and must trickle down through the entire Title IX process. In our experience, we have found that explaining both the process and how the information provided will be shared, parties and witnesses are more likely to be open and honest about what they know. An open and honest process and implementation makes a big difference.

3. Trauma-informed practices are key. Even if a school has the best policies, practices, and trainings, barriers will continue if those on the ground do not know how to respond in a trauma-informed way. Title IX and support teams must understand the trauma created by Title IX violations as well as the trauma that parties and witnesses bring with them into the process. Our responses can also be a barrier for future reporting if we are not kind and compassionate while offering care and support.

If we work toward compliance, transparency, care, and support, we will reduce barriers to reporting and create safer environments for our entire community.