Reports that the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s shooting had a relationship with a transgender individual have created tension and raised concerns among some LGBTQ+ community members on and off campus.
Encircle St. George, an organization united to bring the LGBTQ+ community together, went virtual, as they closed the house Sept. 15 and reopened Sept. 22. The Encircle Instagram stated they were going virtual due to an abundance of caution.
Their Instagram said, “Thank you for your understanding — the safety of our youth, families, and community is always our top priority.”
This led to Utah Tech University’s LGBTQ+ Student Organization requesting police presence at events.
Despite recent political changes due to state bills, clubs and organizations have come together to support the LGBTQ+SO by collaborating with events and reaching out personally to club members. One club collaborating has been Birds Aren’t Real and future-wise they are collaborating with the K-Pop Dance Club. This effort has helped club members of LGBTQ+SO feel seen on campus.
Mason Britton, president of LGBTQ+SO, and a senior history major from Lake Havasu City, Arizona, said: “I think a lot of people think just because we are the LGBTQ Student Organization on campus, that means that all students aren’t welcome. We don’t need the same political beliefs to get your nails painted and have a bagel… we welcome all people.”
Mitski Avalox is a part-time instructor and graduate student at Utah Tech, and the founder of Southern Utah Drag Stars.
Avalox described the current climate for LGBTQ students and staff on campus as cautious. “With everything going on, we’re on our toes a little bit,” she said.
Visibility for LGBTQ events on campus has decreased in recent years, she said.
“Every year the budget’s been getting smaller, and the visibility has been getting smaller… I think it’s in fear of being either retaliated against or the backlash that could potentially happen,” Avalox said.
The recent assassination of Kirk at Utah Valley University, along with ongoing debates surrounding policies in the state, has left some faculty and students worried about safety. “Some of us [faculty] have tried, but obviously, the DEI bill has eliminated the structure and the support systems that we used to have [on campus],” Avalox said.
Mars Tankard, vice president of LGBTQ+SO, and a sophomore psychology major from Yuba City, California, said, “I think with the climate of the nation in general… no matter who you are or what you believe, [community] is important.”
While Encircle declined to comment for this story, the organization’s mission of creating safe spaces and fostering community for LGBTQ youth remains central to its work.
Despite rising tensions, the LGBTQ+SO advises the Utah Tech community to remain hopeful about the future.
“Resiliency is just making sure you’re able to do what you came here to do,” Avalox said. “Don’t let these other factors affect you or prohibit you from getting your degree.”
If any students, faculty or staff feel unsafe on campus, contact the Utah Tech Police Department. For mental health guidance, students are directed to the Booth Wellness Center.
