The NCAA Hall of Champions will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Title IX by admitting all visitors free of charge Thursday, June 23. The hall, in White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis, will be open 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m., with special activities beginning at 3:30 p.m.
Title IX, which was signed June 23, 1972, prohibits gender discrimination in educational programs and activities that receive federal funding and has been transformational for women, who have gained increased participation opportunities in sports and education and protections involving sexual violence prevention on college campuses. Athletics are considered a part of a school’s education program and thus are covered by Title IX.
The Hall of Champions will celebrate the law by hosting a day of fun activities with giveaways and special guests. Butler’s bulldog, Blue; UIndy’s greyhound, Grady; and others representing local Indiana universities and organizations also will be in attendance to greet visitors in the afternoon.
The hall will host a scavenger hunt, trivia and other activities, with prizes to include Title IX apparel and trinkets and NCAA championship items. Visitors can also see the hall’s membership showcase, which features an educational Title IX timeline, women trailblazers and interesting factoids.
“We are so excited that the NCAA Hall of Champions is a part of the Association’s tribute to the 50th anniversary of Title IX that we wanted to give all visitors free access to the facility where they could enjoy fun activities and learn about this important law,” said Kelly Dodds, assistant director of operations. “Equality is very important, and we want to take this special opportunity to help educate our visitors in a fun way. We hope everyone has a good time at the hall on June 23.”
Title IX states, “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.”
The NCAA began its anniversary celebration of Title IX in January at its annual Convention with a dedicated Title IX at 50 website for resources and information and a trade show booth with information on the law.
Additional tributes and recognitions have included mentions at NCAA winter and spring championships; staff speaking engagements; social and digital programs; educational sessions; and the promotion of NCAA college, university and conference office Title IX anniversary events. The NCAA will bring its campaign to a close in April 2023 at the NCAA Women’s Final Four in Dallas where Division I, II and III women’s basketball teams will compete in the same city for championship titles in their respective divisions.
