The Southwestern Athletic Convention has fined Florida A&M College following inappropriate feedback made by its marching band announcer for an inappropriate remark directed towards Alabama State’s plus-size dance staff.
Along with a $10,000 effective, Joe Bullard, the longtime Marching 100 announcer, has been suspended for the subsequent two FAMU residence contests. The convention cited its “Ideas and Requirements of Sportsmanship” in levying the punishment.
“Inappropriate conduct and invective language will at all times be met with sturdy motion,” the SWAC mentioned in its assertion. “The Convention Workplace will proceed to uphold a zero tolerance for such conduct.”
The convention additionally acknowledged FAMU’s formal apology, noting its expectation that no comparable incident will happen sooner or later.
Throughout Saturday’s recreation at Bragg Memorial Stadium, Bullard made a comment referring to the Honey Beez as “the brand new face of Ozempic,” a remark perceived by many as body-shaming and disrespectful. The assertion sparked fast outrage on-line, with video clips circulating quickly and prompting responses from each college communities.
In his Fb apology, Bullard acknowledged, “My feedback directed towards the ASU Honey Beez had been meant as lighthearted banter, however I now acknowledge that they got here throughout in a approach that was hurtful and disrespectful. For that, I lengthen my deepest and most heartfelt apologies: before everything to the ASU Honey Beez, to Alabama State College, to the Alabama State College Marching Band, to Florida A&M College, and to the followers and supporters of each establishments who had been in attendance, or anybody else who heard my phrases. To anybody who was offended, I’m really sorry.”
Florida A&M President Marva Johnson additionally expressed remorse, issuing an announcement that described Bullard’s phrases as “inappropriate and offensive” and assuring the general public that steps could be taken to advertise accountability and stop comparable incidents sooner or later.
Johnson praised the Honey Beez as exemplars of self-discipline and faculty pleasure, emphasizing that careless remarks ought to by no means diminish their artistry and dedication.
Alabama State College President Quinton Ross straight addressed the staff, saying, “Honey Beez, please know that you’re celebrated, valued, and admired for the enjoyment that you simply carry to the Hornet Nation, and in addition for the daring and fearless approach you symbolize the easiest of ASU. Proceed to shine, as a result of your gentle can’t be dimmed by negativity.”
