Columbia, Missouri, August 22, 2025
News Summary
The University of Missouri has canceled the Black 2 Class Block Party over concerns of potential racial exclusion implied by its name. The decision, made just days before the event, sparked backlash from the Legion of Black Collegians, who viewed it as a significant act of erasure. Despite suggestions to rename the event, the university upheld its stance, citing its commitment to inclusivity. The cancellation raised broader concerns about the experiences of minority students and incidents of racial harassment on campus, prompting calls for a stronger university stance on such matters.
Columbia, Missouri – University of Missouri Cancels Black 2 Class Block Party Over Inclusion Concerns
The University of Missouri (MU) has canceled the Legion of Black Collegians’ (LBC) Black 2 Class Block Party due to concerns about potential exclusion implied by the event’s name. The announcement came on Monday, just four days before the scheduled event on Friday, prompting outcry from the LBC, which called the decision “a deliberate act of erasure.”
In a meeting this week involving LBC’s executive board and key university figures, including Vice Chancellor Angela King Taylor and UM System President Mun Choi, the LBC raised concerns about the implications of the cancellation. Despite offers to rename the event to “Back 2 Class Block Party,” the university remained firm in its decision.
MU’s rationale for the cancellation was tied to their policy against exclusivity based on race. The administration argued that the name “Black 2 Class” suggested a level of exclusion that was not in line with the university’s mission to foster an inclusive environment for all students. In a previous instance, MU required LBC to change the name of its “Welcome Black BBQ” event to “Welcome Black and Gold BBQ,” leading LBC to withdraw from participation this year altogether.
The university maintained that all events must reflect its commitment to non-discrimination and that no alternatives were provided to address the situation surrounding the Black 2 Class Block Party. In response, LBC members expressed disappointment, highlighting a lack of constructive discourse from the university regarding the issues they face.
Additionally, during the recent meeting, broader concerns about campus safety and the experiences of minority students surfaced. LBC representatives pointed out that numerous incidents of racial harassment were reported during the past academic year, with many Black students encountering racial slurs in various campus settings. The group urged the university to take a stronger public stance against racial harassment and to enhance clarity regarding MU’s nondiscrimination policies.
Amidst this cancellation, a spokesperson from MU also indicated that issues related to the event’s permit played a role in the decision. While LBC believed they had secured approval for the event’s planned location at the Black Culture Center, the university stated that they had not received the necessary permit.
Support for LBC came from Phi Beta Sigma, a historically Black fraternity on campus, which criticized the university’s decision as reinforcing barriers for Black student organizations. They expressed solidarity with LBC in light of the ongoing challenges that these organizations face in the campus environment.
Moving forward, discussions about how to create a more inclusive campus remain critical as the administration and student organizations navigate the complexities of race and community engagement within the university setting.
Background Context
The University of Missouri has a history of navigating discussions around race and inclusivity on its campus. Previous incidents of exclusionary practices or events have led to tension between the administration and student groups, particularly those representing marginalized populations. As part of its commitment to diversity, MU continuously reviews its policies and event guidelines to ensure compliance with nondiscrimination statutes.
The Legion of Black Collegians serves as a vital hub for Black students and promotes cultural awareness, unity, and academic success through various initiatives and events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the reason for the cancellation of the Black 2 Class Block Party?
The cancellation was due to concerns that the event’s name suggested exclusivity based on race, which did not align with the University of Missouri’s commitment to inclusivity.
What alternative name did the Legion of Black Collegians propose?
The LBC suggested renaming the event to “Back 2 Class Block Party,” but the university declined this option and confirmed the cancellation.
What support did the Legion of Black Collegians receive?
Phi Beta Sigma, a historically Black fraternity at MU, voiced their support for LBC and criticized the cancellation as perpetuating barriers for Black organizations on campus.
What previous events faced similar issues with naming at the university?
In the past, MU required LBC to change the name of the “Welcome Black BBQ” to “Welcome Black and Gold BBQ,” leading to the organization’s withdrawal from that event this year.
What broader issues were discussed during the meeting between LBC and university leaders?
The meeting also addressed campus safety concerns and incidents of racial slurs and harassment experienced by Black students throughout the past school year.
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Additional Resources
- KMIZ: Black Student Group Meets with MU Over Cancellation of Event
- KMIZ: MU Cancels Welcome Event for Black Student Group
- Columbia Tribune: Rapper Talib Kweli Coming to Columbia, MO
- WIS TV: Columbia Police Non-Profit Collaboration for Block Party
- Wikipedia: Cultural Inclusivity
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