Tuscaloosa, AL, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama has shut down its Black Student Union and LGBTQ+ Safe Zone resource center in response to a new state law prohibiting funding for diversity programs. This decision has raised concerns among students and advocacy groups about the support available for minority populations on campus. With the closures, resources and dedicated spaces for Black and LGBTQ+ students have been severely limited, prompting advocacy groups to seek alternative funding sources. The impact on students has been notably emotional as they worry about future inclusivity on campus.
University of Alabama Closes Black Student Union and LGBTQ+ Resource Center Amid New Anti-DEI Law
Tuscaloosa, AL – The University of Alabama has closed its Black Student Union (BSU) and Safe Zone LGBTQ+ resource center in late August 2024, as a direct response to Senate Bill 129. This law, enacted by Governor Kay Ivey, prohibits public universities from allocating funds to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The closures have sparked concern among students and advocacy groups about the future support for minority populations on campus.
Cierra Gilliam, a university student, expressed her disappointment regarding the closure, stating that it leaves students feeling isolated without a dedicated space to gather and seek support. The BSU has historically offered a slew of essential resources to its members, such as travel assistance, grooming services, and crucial insights for navigating life at a predominantly white institution.
The law, defined in SB 129, particularly targets DEI programs, classifying any educational initiative that involves attendance based on race, sex, gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, or sexual orientation as non-compliant for financial support. As a result, the university has ceased funding the significant programs that were previously integral to the BSU and Safe Zone.
Details of the Closures
Alex House, the associate director of communications for the University of Alabama, confirmed that the university will not be supporting the programs offered through the Safe Zone, which has already seen staff positions go unfilled. Student employees of Safe Zone were presented with opportunities to work in other roles around the university, further indicating a shift in focus from these critical services.
Despite the closures, both the BSU and the Queer Student Association (QSA) retain the ability to reserve meeting rooms on campus; however, they will no longer receive dedicated resources from the institution. This poses challenges for leaders like Bryce Schottelkotte, who cites the difficulties of managing their organizations as unpaid students while balancing other responsibilities.
Impact on Students and Advocacy Efforts
Amid the loss of Safe Zone, Rowan Aldridge, a senior at the university, noted the emotional toll felt by students who previously relied on the center for support and assurance. Many students, including incoming freshmen, have expressed concern about the lack of a dedicated space for the BSU, even though there is significant interest from new students wanting to join.
The demographics at the University of Alabama highlight the pressing need for support structures. Black students comprise approximately 11% of the student body, despite representing over 25% of the state’s population. Lisa Young, the president of the Tuscaloosa chapter of the NAACP, emphasized the crucial role played by the BSU in aiding Black students and preserving the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement.
In light of the closures, both the BSU and QSA are actively seeking alternative funding sources for their programming. Advocacy groups have begun to support these organizations, with local entities stepping in to fund annual events and foster community engagements despite the official limitations imposed by the university.
Changes in University Policy
The closure announcement for BSU and Safe Zone followed a lack of prior communication regarding compliance to SB 129, leaving many students and faculty members surprised. Previously supportive initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity and inclusion are being replaced with the Division of Opportunities, Success, and Connection, which does not specifically address diversity issues. The BSU has reaffirmed its commitment to its mission and aims to continue mobilizing for advocacy and voter registration efforts despite the obstacles it faces.
The BSU’s president, Jordan Stokes, stressed that the organization exists beyond just a physical office and that the community would continue to thrive regardless of external challenges.
FAQ
What is Senate Bill 129?
Senate Bill 129 is a law signed by Governor Kay Ivey that prohibits public universities in Alabama from allocating funds to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs based on race, sex, gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, or sexual orientation.
Why did the University of Alabama close the Black Student Union and Safe Zone?
The closures were a direct response to Senate Bill 129, which disallows state funding for DEI initiatives.
How does the legislation affect Black students and LGBTQ+ students at the university?
The closures eliminate dedicated spaces for resources and support, which adversely affects both Black and LGBTQ+ students, making it harder for them to connect and find necessary assistance.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Legislation | Senate Bill 129 prohibits funding for DEI programs in Alabama public universities. |
| Closure Impact | The closures of BSU and Safe Zone affect resources for Black and LGBTQ+ students. |
| Student Reactions | Students express sadness and concern about loss of community spaces. |
| Advocacy Support | Local organizations are stepping in to provide funding for student organizations. |
| University Shift | Previous DEI offices replaced with the Division of Opportunities, Success and Connection. |
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Additional Resources
- Alabama Reflector: University of Alabama Closes BSU and LGBTQ Center
- Montgomery Advertiser: Mass Racist Texts Target Black Alabamians
- Tuscaloosa News: Lawsuit Against DEI Restrictions at University of Alabama
- AL.com: Alabama’s Anti-DEI Law Impact on Colleges
- Wikipedia: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
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