Introduction to Title IX and the Civil Rights Act
At Napa Valley College, our Title IX & Civil Rights Office is dedicated to creating and maintaining an environment where every individual—students, staff, and faculty alike—can thrive without fear of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Our mission is rooted in the principles of equality and fairness established by landmark federal laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as well as comprehensive state laws such as the California Education Code § 220 and the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). These laws not only guide our policies but also reflect our institution's deep commitment to justice and inclusion.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964, particularly Title VI, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. This applies directly to educational institutions, requiring colleges like Napa Valley College to ensure equal access to academic programs, admissions, and services for all individuals. Title VII extends protections to employees, prohibiting workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, ensuring fair treatment for faculty and staff. In California, Education Code § 220 further prohibits discrimination on race, color, nationality, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability (mental or physical), medical condition, marital status, age, and genetic information.
Furthermore, Title IX, an integral part of the Education Amendments of 1972, prohibits discrimination based on sex in any educational program or activity that receives federal funding. Under the 2020 Title IX regulations, institutions are required to address formal complaints of sexual harassment, including quid pro quo harassment, severe and pervasive unwelcome conduct, and sexual violence. These regulations emphasize procedural fairness, requiring supportive measures for all parties, equal opportunities to present evidence, and grievance processes grounded in due process principles.
California law calls for additional protections through the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in public accommodations, including educational institutions, based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability (mental or physical), medical condition, marital status, and genetic information. Similarly, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits harassment, discrimination, and retaliation in employment, safeguarding faculty and staff from unequal treatment based on the same characteristics. These laws collectively ensure an inclusive environment for learning and working.
Our Title IX & Civil Rights Office plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with these federal and state laws, fostering a culture of accountability and respect. We provide services and support to address complaints of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. If you have experienced or witnessed unfair treatment, we encourage you to reach out to our team. Our office ensures a thorough and impartial process to resolve complaints while offering supportive measures to help individuals navigate challenging situations. Additionally, we partner with campus departments to provide ongoing education and training on civil rights issues, equipping our community with the tools to build a more inclusive environment.
We also recognize that addressing discrimination and harassment requires more than compliance—it requires proactive engagement. Our office organizes trainings and awareness campaigns to educate the campus community about rights and responsibilities under federal and California law. From understanding implicit bias to promoting bystander intervention, these initiatives are designed to empower every member of our institution to contribute to a culture of respect and equity.
As you explore our website, you’ll find resources tailored to students, staff, and faculty, including guidance on filing complaints, accessing supportive measures, and participating in investigations. You’ll also find educational materials and training opportunities to deepen your understanding of civil rights issues. Our goal is to provide the tools and support you need to succeed in a campus environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Title IX & Civil Rights Office
Building 1500 Room 1546
(707)-256-7198
kelly.tomlinson@napavalley.edu
If you would like to make a report, please choose from the following:
Report a Sex (Orientation and Gender Included) Based Discrimination Incident