Federal Complaint Targets MIT Over Gender Discrimination Claims
A federal complaint filed on December 29, 2025, has called for an investigation into two graduate-level organizations at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for alleged sex-based discrimination against biological males. The complaint, submitted by the Equal Protection Project, asserts that the “Graduate Womxn in Physics” and “Graduate Womxn in Biology” programs violate Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 by excluding male-identifying students.
According to the complaint, the programs automatically include individuals who identify as female, while males must demonstrate additional factors, such as being transgender or nonbinary, to qualify for participation. The document states, “Such differing eligibility standards based on whether one is male or female constitute sex-based discrimination in clear violation of Title IX.” It further contends that the naming and promotion of these programs suggest they are not intended for males, which is also a violation of the law.
The “Graduate Womxn in Physics” program aims to foster community and support gender diversity among physics graduate students at MIT. According to its website, the program uses the term “womxn” to encompass “transgender women, cisgender women, non-binary people, and gender diverse physics graduate students.” It offers career development workshops, mentoring, and travel grants to eligible participants.
Similarly, the “Graduate Womxn in Biology” program describes itself as an inclusive group that supports those who identify as “womxn,” including transgender and non-binary individuals. The program seeks to create a safe space for its members to build connections within the community and receive professional development opportunities.
The complaint argues that the term “womxn” indicates sex-based preferences and claims that the two MIT programs violate guidelines outlined in a memorandum issued by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in July 2025. This memorandum specifies that recipients of federal funding must not discriminate based on sex, race, or other protected characteristics.
William Jacobson, Founder and President of the Equal Protection Project, commented on the situation, suggesting it may indicate broader issues within MIT’s programs. He expressed hope that the Department of Justice would investigate further, stating, “You can’t escape Title IX liability… by simply tossing in a sentence which says, ‘Disregard everything we just said, this is actually open to everybody.’ That’s called signaling.”
As of now, representatives from the “Graduate Womxn in Physics” and “Graduate Womxn in Biology” programs have not provided comments regarding the complaint. The Equal Protection Project has also been contacted for further statements.
This complaint highlights ongoing discussions about gender identity and institutional policies in educational settings, sparking debates over inclusivity and legal compliance within federally funded programs. The outcome of this investigation may have significant implications for similar organizations across the country.
