On Wednesday, January 28, Kent State’s Undergraduate Student Government President Ivory Kendrick took to USG’s Instagram to announce funding has been secured to continue long-standing identity-based traditions. This includes the beloved Lavender Celebration, a pre-commencement ceremony honoring LGBTQ+ students.

“The approved  budget also includes dedicated support to ensure that meaningful historic student celebrations, such as Karamu and the Lavender Celebration, continue to thrive and cultivate a strong sense of belonging on our campus” the post reads.

The reinstatement of Kent State’s Lavender Celebration is a huge win for the queer community on campus following the loss of the LGBTQ+ center last semester, which was erased in the wake of Ohio’s Senate Bill 1.

Common Lavender Celebration traditions include keynote and alumni speakers, award presentations and the awarding of rainbow stoles to community graduates and allies.