ABSTRACT
On March 29, 2021, the Religious Exemption Accountability Project filed a class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education on behalf of 33 sexual and gender minority students who reported discrimination at institutions that have a Title IX religious’ exemption. Of the 25 institutions named in the suit, 14 have accredited social work programs. This litigation highlights the importance of a professional discussion about implicit curriculum, regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion of LGBTQ+ students in programs at institutions with Title IX exemptions. Utilizing the Code of Ethics and the ethical principles of the International Federation of Social Workers, the author provides recommendations for accountability and support for social work programs based in these exempt schools.
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Veronica L. Timbers
Veronica L. Timbers is MSW Online Assistant Program Coordinator & Clinical Assistant Professor at Boise State University, and a PhD Candidate at Baylor University.