The Strom Thurmond wellness and fitness center is a fantastic facility, and a major part of campus life for many students. I happily work for the gym’s athletic programs during the school year and see how many people (both students and public members) take advantage of the programs, events, and equipment on a daily basis.

Strom Thurmond served South Carolina as a senator for 48 years. He is remembered as one of the biggest political supporters of racial segregation, beginning with his opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

He does not represent modern values, and should not represent one of the country’s largest fitness centers on a college campus. However, this building is protected under the Heritage Act. Protected buildings and monuments can only be renamed or removed with at least two-thirds approval from both the House and the Senate. Sign this petition to raise awareness to the steps we have to take before local south carolina communities can vote to change and remove offensive monuments. Put pressure on legislators to repeal the Heritage Act by calling and writing!

Big changes begin with small actions!!

For a southern university that promotes diversity and inclusivity, it shouldn’t be named after someone who spent his entire life fighting against African American civil rights. I am a proud to be a gamecock and look forward to the university acknowledging and supporting the voice of it’s students!