University of Missouri at Columbia officials recently requested that the Legion of Black Collegians (LBC) change the name of their annual start-of-term tradition to be less race-based. The event, a cookout organized by the student government group, has traditionally been known as the Welcome Black BBQ. However, this year it will be held under a new title—the Welcome Black and Gold BBQ, in honor of Mizzou’s colors.
The decision to change the event’s name has left leaders of the LBC feeling “heartbroken.” In an Instagram post, the LBC expressed their disappointment, stating that they had spent months fighting the decision in an effort to preserve the original title and message of the event. They initially wanted to keep the original name or not have the event at all but ultimately decided to comply to avoid potential consequences for the government and other Black student leaders.
The move to change the event’s name comes on the heels of the University of Missouri’s decision to dissolve its Division for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity. This decision was made in an attempt to appease conservative lawmakers and avoid future budget cuts. Christopher Ave, the university’s director of news and information, explained that the name change was intended to promote inclusivity and ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds feel welcome on campus.
While the legion has voiced frustration about the university’s handling of the event in the past, they are still encouraging students and faculty members to attend the Welcome Black and Gold BBQ. In their Instagram post, the LBC reiterated their commitment to the event’s activities and expressed their determination to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
The Impact of the Name Change
The decision to change the name of the Welcome Black BBQ to the Welcome Black and Gold BBQ has sparked a conversation about the implications of such a move. Some argue that the name change is a step in the right direction towards promoting inclusivity and diversity on campus. By removing the explicit reference to race in the event’s title, the university is sending a message that all students are welcome and valued.
However, others believe that the name change is a form of erasure and diminishes the significance of the event to the Black student community. The Welcome Black BBQ has been a long-standing tradition that holds cultural and historical significance for many Black students at Mizzou. Changing the name of the event could be seen as an attempt to downplay the importance of Black identity and experiences on campus.
The impact of the name change goes beyond just the event itself. It raises questions about how institutions should navigate issues of race, diversity, and inclusion. By changing the name of the event, the university is signaling a shift in its approach to addressing these issues. It remains to be seen how the Black student community and the larger campus community will respond to this change and what it means for future efforts towards creating a more inclusive environment at Mizzou.
Reactions from the Community
The decision to change the name of the Welcome Black BBQ has elicited mixed reactions from the Mizzou community. Some students and faculty members have expressed support for the name change, citing the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity on campus. They believe that removing the explicit reference to race in the event’s title is a positive step towards creating a more welcoming environment for all students.
However, others have criticized the decision, arguing that it diminishes the significance of the event to the Black student community. They believe that the Welcome Black BBQ has a long history and holds cultural importance for many Black students at Mizzou. Changing the name of the event could be seen as an attempt to erase or ignore the experiences of Black students on campus.
The Legion of Black Collegians has been vocal in their disappointment with the decision to change the event’s name. In their Instagram post, they expressed their frustration and reiterated their commitment to finding ways to prevent similar situations from happening in the future. The LBC’s response highlights the deep sense of hurt and betrayal felt by many Black students at Mizzou in the wake of this decision.
Looking Ahead
As the Mizzou community grapples with the implications of the name change for the Welcome Black BBQ, it is important to consider the broader context of diversity and inclusion on campus. The decision to change the event’s name raises questions about how institutions should approach issues of race and identity and how they can best support marginalized communities.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for the university to engage in meaningful dialogue with students, faculty, and staff to address concerns and work towards creating a more inclusive campus environment. By listening to the voices of those most affected by these decisions, Mizzou can take steps towards building a more equitable and supportive community for all students.
In conclusion, the decision to change the name of the Welcome Black BBQ to the Welcome Black and Gold BBQ has sparked important conversations about race, diversity, and inclusion at the University of Missouri. While the move may have been made with the intention of promoting inclusivity, it has also raised concerns about erasure and the importance of acknowledging and valuing the experiences of Black students on campus. Moving forward, it will be essential for the university to listen to the concerns of the community and work towards creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.