Some MU students torn over recent decision to rename barbecue
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Some University of Missouri students say they'e unsure a recent decision made by the university is necessary.
The Mizzou Legion of Black Collegians posted on its social media stating its fall barbecue will now have to operate under the name "Welcome Black and Gold BBQ," as opposed to "Welcome Black BBQ." The group called the decision "heartbreaking" and said it came after months of fighting the decision.
"When presented with the idea, we initially wanted to keep the original name or not have the event at all. However, in tandem with the GOBCC, Ms. Andrea, and the university, we did not want to override the hard work our government and other black students put into this, nor face consequences that could lead to massive losses for our government so early into the year," the statement reads.
MU senior Esra Jackson said she's attended the barbecue in the past, and saw students of all cultures attend. She said she doesn't find the change in name necessary for ensuring the event is inclusive.
"I don't think that because you name something after a specific group to make it obvious that that's kind of what the culture of the bbq is going to be about... or whatever event that it is, that doesn't necessarily make it not inclusive for other people," Jackson said.
In a statement sent to ABC 17 News via email, University spokesman Christopher Ave said the university made the decision to reflect a welcoming and open campus.
"Achieving excellence for all is at the core of the University of Missouri's mission. And clearly, in striving for an inclusive university, we must not exclude (or give impressions that we are excluding) individuals with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives," the statement reads. "The name of this university-sponsored event was modified in collaboration with event organizers to reflect that our campus is open and welcoming to all. In doing so, we'll achieve the excellence we seek in teaching and learning, research and engagement."
MU freshman Mya Gibson said although she's never attended the barbecue and has only been on campus for a few days, she can understand the university's mindset on the matter.
"I feel like people who heard black barbecue feel like 'oh it's just for black people,' but including the black and gold will make it seem like it's more inclusive," Gibson said.
Ophidain Monroe is also a freshman at MU who said while she doesn't have much experience at the university, her overall impression of the school is that it is inclusive. Monroe also said she believes the decision shouldn't have been left up to the university.
"I feel like regardless of the name as long as the community is open, it doesn't really matter," Monroe said. "That should have been their choice to change it if they wanted to, rather than something forced by the university."
The event will be held 4-7 p.m. Friday at the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center.
