On the evening of June 21, 2021, SGA President Jake Statom shared an incendiary and homophobic post on his social media story. Further investigation into the origin of the post revealed an organization that has a long history of posting homophobic, transphobic, racist, and bigoted content. While people are entitled to their own personal beliefs, as the SGA President of a university with an active LGBTQIA+ Community, Jake Statom needs to show that he is capable of protecting the interests of all students. However, given this post and lack of an apology, it is clear that Jake Statom is incapable of being an SGA President who can equally represent all students. It is in the best interest of the campus community that Jake Statom resigns or is asked to step down by the University. 

The University of North Alabama is supposedly focused on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all of its students. Given the historically conservative and religious background of this state, it can be very challenging for LGBTQIA+ students to be open. Often, being on campus is the first opportunity for students to be their true selves. As long as our SGA President is openly homophobic, it will be impossible for UNA to truly be a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ Community.