On April 7, 2026, various students came together in support of human rights as two protesters arrived on campus in the early afternoon and began sharing their political views in front of the Waverly Manors. These protesters, equipped with a megaphone and large signage depicting anti-LGBTQ+ and abortion messages, gathered a large crowd of students around them.
Students responded to the two protestors with their own signs and flags, megaphones, electric guitars, bongos, drum sets and speakers. A small group of students surrounded the individuals blocking their signage and making noise to silence the protesters. Across the street, students and staff sat down on blankets and chairs watching the protest unfold.
“Campus Safety has been in contact with them to ensure they are abiding by our policies, and we will continue to monitor the situation thoughtfully and directly. You have the right to choose whether to engage or not engage with individuals demonstrating in public spaces,” says Dean of Students Lindsey Leonard in an email to the Wartburg community.
Wartburg College is an intimate Lutheran liberal arts institution with a commitment to diversity and inclusion, dedicated to making students feel comfortable and safe in their environment.
“The Wartburg College community is committed to creating and maintaining a mutually respectful environment that recognizes and celebrates diversity among all students, faculty and staff,” says the Wartburg College Seal.
Iowa, a red state, is known for their controversial anti-LGBTQ+ and abortion laws. Most notable is the 2025 restriction of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) including healthcare access, occupational and educational opportunities for minorities and more social justice policies.
Protests around Iowa are not uncommon, especially within universities and colleges. Students from around campus came together making posters, singing songs, waving flags and sharing their own views with the protesters.
Second year McCain Myers was seen silently sitting on a speaker, playing music to drown the words for the protesters.
“It’s just basic human embodiment to be out here,” says Myers. “I think people are just closing their ears to what he’s saying, and nitpicking what they want to hear that supports their idea.”
Wartburg College offers many resources for those who are struggling or need guidance through these moments.
For an LGBTQ+ safe space and support, follow up with the Wartburg College Alliance an organization dedicated to providing resources for the LGBTQ+ community. Or reach out to Krystal Madlock, the director of diversity equity and inclusion, at [email protected] for more information.
