Central changed the name of the event after receiving information about Holi festival and color runs. Here is their full press release:

PELLA, IA (04/05/2022) Central College will rename its springtime run to the Neon Fun Run, set for 7 p.m. Friday, April 29. The 1.853-mile untimed run/walk event (honoring Central’s founding year) is free and open to all students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. Each participant will receive a free T-shirt.

“Members of the Central community brought forward concerns of how a color run serves as appropriation versus appreciation of a significant Hindu celebration. Upon review of new information regarding the religious connections to color and the Hindu Holi festival, as well as conversation with concerned individuals, we decided to shift from a color- to a neon-themed run. We hope this change will demonstrate our continued commitment to building a culture of inclusion,” says Kristi Leonard ’97, assistant dean of students and event spokesperson.

The route starts and finishes near the flagpole monument in front of Weller Center for Business and International Studies on Central’s campus, located at the corner of West Third and Independence streets.

The event is sponsored by Central’s student development, United Minority Alliance, Students Against Sexual Assault and Psychology Club. To register, visit central.edu/neon-run or come early the night of the race to register.