Students and Campus Community,

By now most of us are aware of the senseless act of violence that targeted the LGBTQ+ community in Orlando, Florida that occurred this past weekend, resulting in the deaths of 49 individuals and the wounding of many more. It is far too familiar a feeling that we have come to know such tragedies by their shorthand names: Columbine, Fort Hood, San Bernardino, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook, and now, Orlando. These are only a few.

At Missouri State University (MSU), we care deeply about all members of our campus community and stand in support with those of the LGBTQ+ community. We will continue to stand tall in the conviction that we, a nation of many identities, faiths, orientations, heritages, nationalities, and viewpoints; is a stronger nation because of our differences, and most importantly because of our similarities. All of us must continuously strive to be better than this and better than what such event(s) represent to our world community.

How to make a difference and get help

We all ask ourselves, “When will this stop?” and “What can we do?” We can start by loving and respecting one another in spite of, and because of our differences, and teaching the next generation to do the same. Diversity is our greatest strength as a nation and as a people!

Although this reprehensible act occurred in Florida, over 1,000 miles away from our campus, this tragic event has reverberated around the country, and may have impacted many of you. You may be feeling fear, anger, frustration, or anxiety after what occurred in Orlando. If you are experiencing such feelings, we encourage you to reach out for support from the LGBTQ Resource Center, Multicultural Resource Center, a trusted member of the university community, or the MSU Counseling Center.

Events have been planned for the Springfield community. They are detailed below.

Friday, June 17

A vigil at the GLO Community Center is set to begin at 8 p.m. The GLO Community Center is located at 518 E. Commercial Street in Springfield.

Saturday, June 18

The Greater Ozarks Pridefest will take place at Park Central Square. The event kicks off Saturday morning with the Equality March beginning at 10:30 a.m. Lineup will start at 9:30 a.m. The march will begin at the southwest corner of Benton Avenue and Chestnut Expressway (the Municipal Court Building parking lot), into the downtown Park Central Square. Pridefest ends at 9 p.m.

For more information, please visit GLOCenter.org.