It’s 2017 and everything is offensive. Every. Thing. The University of Minnesota has decided that having a homecoming king and queen is too exclusive and joins other universities before them in doing away with the outdated tradition. Now, there will just be “royals” which “can be any combination of any gender identity,” the school’s website stated.
“This change allows the University to select the best student representatives for the U of M based on campus and community involvement — regardless of gender,” the statement continued.
Here’s the breakdown of the new system according to the Pioneer Press:
As in past years, the U will name 10 students to Homecoming court, only this year the mix won’t necessarily be five men and five women. Those 10 will be paired at random to compete in pre-Homecoming events, and their performance, along with a university-wide vote, will determine the two royals.
As The College Fix learned, there wasn’t a specific incident that led to the change. It was just time, according to Student Unions & Activities marketing manager Allyson Taubenheim:
“We are excited about this change. Our student body is made up of very diverse population that shouldn’t be limited by gender identity. Other colleges, universities and even high schools have made similar changes. We look forward to crowning two students who respectfully represent the university’s values, connect with the diverse members of the university community, and have excellent school pride.”
