Where can you 
             go for help ..
                         with ..sexual harassment ...
                                     inequality in athletics programs ...
                                                  pay inequity ...
                                                               denial of tenure?

	The AAUW LEGAL ADVOCACY FUND is the only organization in the country with the sole purpose of fighting sex discrimination in higher education. Established in 1981, LAF offers financial and emotional support for women seeking judicial redress for sex discrimination in colleges and universities. In addition to monetary help, a network of top-notch lawyers, social scientists and former LAF plaintiffs is available to offer guidance and support to women considering filing a grievance or lawsuit against their institutions. By 2002, LAF had supported 75 plaintiffs in suits against institutions of higher learning and had contributed more than $800,000 in direct support of women fighting discrimination. One recent and successful case was against prestigious Stanford University for discrimination against a female research scientist.

AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund promotes equity for women in higher education by:
• providing financial support for sex discrimination lawsuits through case support
• working to educate the university community about sex discrimination and improve conditions through campus outreach
• organizing a network of volunteer attorneys and social scientists who consult with women on legal strategies, resources, and the strength of current and potential lawsuits
• recognizing innovative efforts to improve the climate for campus women through the Progress in Equity Award

Foundation Mission and Diversity Statements

The AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund provides funding and a support system for women seeking judicial redress for sex discrimination.

In principle and practice, the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund values and seeks support of a diverse AAUW membership. There shall be no barriers to full participation in this organization on the basis of gender, race, creed, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or class.


How You Can Help

AAUW members and others can contribute through our local branch by clicking on Contributions on the menu bar or by contacting our Finance Officer.

Your contributions to the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund will help create an equitable environment for women on university campuses across the country. The AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Contributions to LAF are tax deductible for federal income tax purposes to the full extent allowed by law.

Case Support Application

The AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund supports discrimination lawsuits against colleges and universities brought by women students, faculty, or staff of those institutions. The National Board considers applications on a case-by-case basis. For more information, click here.