This is an open letter to the queer community and their allies at Iowa State University – Ames United Church of Christ stands in solidarity with you.
We grieve the wave of oppression and hatred, in the form of destroying Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs and funding, that is sweeping across this country. Here in Iowa, we mourn the passing of SF 2435 and how it passed in the dead of night without public input as part of an appropriations bill. This bill mandated that DEI offices, services, classes and programs be eliminated at the 3 regents universities. ISU DEI Office at Iowa State has been closed and the staff laid off.
Other DEI related programs and classes have been curtailed and remain at risk of being terminated. This directly impacts pride celebrations, such as the annual Lavender Graduation. No longer will the ISU LGBTQ Student Success Center serve as a safe place on campus for queer students. In fact, this recently remodeled space in the Memorial Union will become a study area, and the two committed staff members will be transferred to other duties at Iowa State University. We encourage the public to ask their local Iowa representatives to repeal the regressive SF 2435 legislation.
Ames UCC recognizes the burden that the pain and hardship of this intolerable targeting creates on your ability to study and learn, to feel safe, and to feel loved. Please know that you are loved. Here at Ames UCC we extend a radical welcome and a safe space. Our faith tradition calls us to act against oppression and hatred, and we are strategizing how best to add our voice and energy to those who are already working for an inclusive world, one that celebrates diversity, realizing how that quality enriches and strengthens all humanity, and understanding that only when equity is achieved can we rest from our labors. In the meantime, know that you are loved.
At Ames UCC, we believe that God loves all of us, unconditionally and for always. You are welcome at Ames UCC; no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome.
