This university has made a small but important step toward gender inclusivity at traditional school events

In an effort to be more gender inclusive, the University of Minnesota is swapping out Homecoming “King” and “Queen” awards for gender-neutral alternatives.

The school will now award two students as “homecoming royals” at their annual Homecoming event, regardless of what gender identity they align with.

“We wish to promote a spirit of inclusion at the University of Minnesota, the school announced in a statement. “This change allows the University to select the best student representatives for the U of M based on campus and community involvement — regardless of gender.

The choice has drawn mixed responses, but the school maintains that making school events more inclusive is the best choice.

“Our student body is made up of very diverse population that shouldn’t be limited by gender identity, UM junior Devin Graftold told  WCCO. “Abolishing those categories I think makes a good statement about how we can represent our community.

Way to go, UM!