News Summary
The University of Mississippi has announced it will withdraw funding for the Oxford Pride Parade due to new state legislation limiting DEI practices. This significant shift in support affects an event aimed at celebrating inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ individuals since its inception in 2016. With the university’s funding cut, student organizations are stepping in to coordinate the event and utilize crowdfunding to cover expenses. Despite legislative challenges, the community’s commitment to supporting diversity remains strong as preparations for the upcoming parade continue.
Oxford, Mississippi – The University of Mississippi has announced its decision to withdraw funding for the Oxford Pride Parade scheduled for 2025. This move is a direct response to the newly enacted state legislation focusing on compliance with laws that prohibit discriminatory practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
The legislation, known as HB 1193 or the REFOCUSES Act, was signed into law by Governor Tate Reeves (R). The act restricts public universities, community colleges, and schools from employing DEI practices in areas such as faculty selection, academic opportunities, and student engagement, stipulating that institutions cannot use government funds to support DEI initiatives unless mandated by federal law.
According to Jacob Batte, the director of news and media relations at the university, a review is underway to determine how this new law will affect the university’s participation in various events and activities, including the Pride Parade. The university is committed to providing a welcoming environment while adhering to state legal requirements.
The University of Mississippi’s decision to withdraw funding marks a significant shift for events aimed at promoting inclusivity within the university community. The Oxford Pride Parade, which has been a staple event since its inception in 2016, was established to provide a visible and inclusive celebration for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies. The parade has grown in scope and popularity over the years, contributing to a sense of acceptance for LGBTQ students on campus.
Originally initiated by graduate student Matt Kessler, the first Pride Parade took place just six weeks after he secured a permit from the city. Following its success, the event gained traction and expanded its partnerships, featuring performances from notable artists such as Big Freedia in subsequent years. However, with the implementation of the REFOCUSES Act, the university’s ability to support such events financially has been curtailed.
The 2023 Oxford Pride Parade is confirmed for Saturday, May 3, starting at 2 p.m. at the Oxford-University Depot. The planned parade route traverses University Avenue, Lamar Blvd, Courthouse Square, Jackson Avenue, and returns back to the Depot. In light of the university’s withdrawal from direct involvement, student organizations Outgrads and UM PRIDE Network have taken on the responsibility of organizing this year’s parade.
In an effort to circumvent the lack of institutional funding, the Oxford Pride organizing committee is utilizing a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the parade. This initiative comes after the university instructed the Sarah Isom Center and other relevant university entities to lessen their engagement with the event while reviewing the potential implications of the new legislation. As of 1 p.m. on Friday, the GoFundMe campaign has successfully surpassed its initial target of $5,000, raising $11,621 through 157 donations.
Additionally, the Oxford Pride website features a “Donate” button leading to the University of Mississippi Foundation’s support page for the Isom Center Fund, which is dedicated to the advancement of LGBTQ arts, culture, and community development. This ongoing fundraising effort reflects the community’s commitment to preserving the spirit of inclusivity despite the challenges posed by recent legislative changes.
As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes will be on the upcoming Pride Parade and how the local LGBTQ community and allies respond to the state’s legislative environment. With the support from various sources and the mobilization of student organizations, the tradition of celebrating diversity and inclusion in Oxford remains strong, albeit under a new framework.
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Additional Resources
- The Daily Mississippian: University Cuts Support for Oxford Pride
- Magnolia Tribune: Ole Miss Pulls Support of Oxford Pride Parade
- Oxford Eagle: Oxford Pride Week 2025 Celebrates with Parade
- Oxford Magazine: Hometown Pride
- Google Search: Oxford Pride
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The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
