Sports Illustrated’s June cover commemorates 50 years since Title IX and the legacy it holds.

In June of 1972, a federal civil rights law passed in the United States of America as a part of the Education Amendments of 1972. Title IX recognized gender equity in education as a civil right and prohibited sex-based discrimination in any school or any other education program that receives funding from the federal government – changing women’s sports forever.


This historic piece of legislation is regarded as one of the biggest factors in what allowed female athletes and women’s sports to come up. With very few funding opportunities and chances to play otherwise, Title IX, in 37 words, made it possible for women to take their first strides toward leveling the playing field. It gave them a chance to play.

The iconic cover has a retro vibe featuring some of the most prominent female athletes of the last 50 years. Athletes gracing the issue include Billie Jean King, Serena Williams, Pat Summit, Mo’ne Davis and Simone Biles just to name a few. Inside the issue, stories of resilience, resistance and determination can be read as well as conversations around gender equality, equal pay, Transgender athletes, media coverage, sports merchandising and the fan experience.
 


This monumental issue will hit stands in June.