When institutions fail, communities must organize: op-ed

This is a guest opinion column

The recent report from The Crimson White detailing The University of Alabama’s decision to remove sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression from its list of protected classes is a troubling development. While the university frames this as a mere administrative maneuver to comply with federal guidance and insists it remains committed to a welcoming environment, the reality felt by many is a deep sense of loss and hopelessness.

A Pattern of Erosion

This latest change is not an isolated event; it represents a darkening trend of eroding protections for LGBTQ communities across our country. For those of us who have spent years advocating on the ground—such as my time as the founding President of The Lambda Society or serving on the National Alumni Association’s Board of Directors—the university's move is as disappointing as it is unsurprising.

As previously covered by 205focus.com, the University of Alabama removing LGBTQ language from its nondiscrimination statement is just the latest chapter in a long history of institutional indifference. Even before the passage of SB-129, internal records and personal experience suggest that staff were preemptively compliant with anti-DEI measures, shrinking support and funding for LGBTQ initiatives well before the law mandated it.

Expect More from Ourselves

We must acknowledge that these institutions often act as protectionists, prioritizing the preservation of the organization over the well-being of all its stakeholders. When faced with a cultural movement of keyboard warriors and a shifting political landscape, the administration has consistently chosen the path of least resistance.

The question we now face is how to effectively protect one another when institutional support falters. It is time for those with the capacity to act—to provide funding, mentorship, and advocacy—to step up. As the LGBTQ community has often been excluded from formal DEI plans, we must be the ones to fill the void.

Collective Action

The Lambda Society remains a vital hub for this work, offering two endowed scholarships and maintaining an emergency fund for students in need. We are currently recruiting for a new leadership cycle and invite everyone to contribute their time and talents. You can find more information here, or visit rollpride.org to get involved.

Will Thomas is a consultant currently living in Washington, DC from Madison, AL.