AFPI Applauds Historic University of Pennsylvania Resolution

Washington, D.C.— The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) released the following statement from Stacey Schieffelin, Chair of America First Women’s Initiative and Jessica Steinmann, Executive General Counsel and co-chair of the AFPI’s Center for Litigation, celebrating the historic resolution reached between the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights & University of Pennsylvania (UPenn):

“Today’s decision is a defining moment for women and girls across America, and a long-overdue correction to the injustice that took place at the University of Pennsylvania,” said Stacey Schieffelin. “Thanks to the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights has secured a historic agreement that restores the original intent of Title IX: to protect women, not erase them.”

Jesica Steinmann said the settlement was the latest example of schools across the country being met with a simple, crucial challenge: follow the law.

“Title IX is clear on this matter, just as biology is clear,” said Steinmann. ”UPenn will now comply with President Trump’s Executive Orders, affirm the definitions of male and female based on biological sex, and safeguard private spaces for women, locker rooms, restrooms, and competition fields, without apology or exception. It’s a victory for women, and for the rule of law over feelings.”

Schieffelin added: “Girls across this country train hard, compete honestly, and deserve to know that their future in sports is protected. President Trump and Secretary McMahon never wavered in that belief. On behalf of mothers, daughters, and athletes everywhere, I thank them for standing firm.

“The America First Women’s Initiative will continue to fight for policies that empower and protect women. Today, we celebrate a powerful victory. Tomorrow, we keep going.”