Some Mizzou Identity-Based Groups Regain Funding From University

The University of Missouri-Columbia ended designated funding for multiple identity-based student organizations, instead requiring them to receive financial support from the university in the same way as most other clubs on campus.

Still, numerous racial and gender groups received funding from the normal student organization funding streams.

In April, Mizzou informed leaders of five multicultural organizations that they would no longer receive direct funding from the Division of Student Affairs. Instead, they were reclassified as Registered Student Organizations in July, and are now subject to the same restrictions expected of other RSOs.

{snip}

The affected groups are the Legion of Black Collegians, Association of Latin American Students, Asian American Association, Queer Liberation Front, and Four Front.

{snip}

In July 2025, the DOJ released a memo that said recipients of federal funding must follow Title IV, Title VI, Title VII, and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. It specifically warned against harmful diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.

The DOJ has since launched investigations into multiple universities for violations of these laws. Mizzou president Mun Choi said, “In discussing with our team, including our general counsel’s office, our initial review indicated that we are not in compliance with Title VI because we’re providing specific benefits to certain groups based on demographics.”

{snip}

While these organizations will no longer automatically receive funding, they are still able to receive funding as registered student organizations.

The clubs were previously able to receive more money than other student organizations. {snip}

{snip}