Victory for Students: LGBTQ+ Resource Center Reopens at Missouri University

After a swift and vigorous student-led campaign, the LGBTQ+ resource center at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) will reopen and stay open, overturning an earlier decision by the university administration to close the facility due to staffing shortages and low student usage.

The outcry was led by Peyton Redinger, president of the SEMO Pride organization, who was frustrated by the lack of clear communication from the university regarding the center’s closure, Southeast Missouri CBS affiliate KFVS reports.

“There wasn’t really much communication on the university’s behalf, so we were kind of like, what is going on? Why is this happening?” Redinger told the outlet.

In a bid to retain this vital resource, Redinger, along with his executive board, launched a petition to gather student opinions on the matter.

The move spurred a sizable portion of the student body to voice their concerns.

“LGBTQ students need a place to go for resources for support,” Kaedan Thomas, a freshman at the university, said.

Following the significant student outcry, the university issued a statement recognizing the strong support from the student body, faculty, and staff for the LGBTQ+ community. As a result, the center will continue to operate in its current location, with staffing to be provided by a mix of student employees and volunteers.

Reflecting on the victory, Redinger found solace in knowing the university heeds student concerns. “It is refreshing to know that the university is listening, that they are willing to do the things it takes to make their students feel safe on campus, even if it is a minority group,” he remarked.