Data are presented on women in higher education, along with information on federal legislation to eliminate sex discrimination, issues concerning redressing employment discrimination, specific problems with legislative procedures and enforcement of legislation, and case studies that highlight some of the processes involved. Evidence is cited that demonstrates patterns of discrimination against women faculty members. Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, The Equal Opportunity Act of 1972, the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972, and Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 are cited. The following factors concerning the predicament of women faculty members in regard to employment discrimination are discussed: the recency of legal protection and the few precedents; the focusing of attention on pattern and practice and class action cases, rather than on individual complaints; general societal attitudes toward academia and academic women; and three types of discrimination. Specific loopholes that women need to take into account when seeking redress from employment discrimination are discussed. One major factor working against the complainant is time; unless a preliminary injunction is granted, a considerable period of time can be expected to elapse before she is granted reinstatement and/or tenure. Injunctions are granted only if "irreparable damage" can be demonstrated to occur should she be terminated or not promoted. Specific problems with Title IX procedures and enforcement and with Executive Orders are covered. (SW)