Update – December 2018: In a 2-1 decision, the Fourth Circuit panel set precedent by reviving a lawsuit against the University of Mary Washington for failing to address anonymous online harassment of female students. The Court held that the female students stated a claim under Title IX because the school had “substantial control” over both the harassers and the context in which the harassment occurred, and that the First Amendment did not absolve the school of its responsibility to respond to victims.

The National Women’s Law Center (NWLC) and law firm Kator, Parks, Weister & Harris, P.L.L.C, submitted an amicus brief to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit in Feminist Majority Foundation, et al. v. University of Mary Washington, et al.The brief argues that the University, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, violated Title IX when it failed to take action to address the severe cyber harassment against female students that began in 2014—soon after they spoke out about sexual violence on campus. Nearly 50 allies, including organizations dedicated to civil rights, educational opportunities, and gender equality, signed the brief.