Joe Bullard, the long-time announcer for Florida A&M University’s Marching 100 band, is in a bit of a tough spot after a recent insensitive comment.
The remark, which he made during the halftime show of the FAMU-Alabama State University football game on September 27 at Bragg Memorial Stadium, has really blown up online, sparking a huge social media debate, with folks both criticizing and defending the “Rattler legend.”
Bullard called the ASU Honey Beez, a popular plus-sized dance team that performs with the Mighty Marching Hornets, “the new face of Ozempic” after the dance team had left the field following its September 27 halftime performance. Ozempic is a prescription drug for type 2 diabetes and is also sold for weight loss.
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On the night of September 29, Bullard posted an apology on Facebook, reflecting how hard the comments and criticisms may have affected him.
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“Friendly competition and playful jesting have long been a part of HBCU (historically Black college and university) band culture, but I have come to understand that my words crossed a line,” Bullard wrote, according to the Tallahassee Democrat. “My intention was never to belittle or disrespect the incredible young people who represent our schools with such grace, talent and pride. They are the embodiment of our culture, and they deserve nothing less than our full respect.”
He added, “As an elder who has been blessed to serve and witness the brilliance of our students for many years, I humbly ask for your forgiveness. It is my hope that we can continue to move forward together in the spirit of unity, excellence, and mutual respect, regardless of the road ahead.”
“My comments directed toward the ASU Honey Beez were meant as lighthearted banter, but I now recognize that they came across in a way that was hurtful and disrespectful,” Bullard wrote.
“For that, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt apologies: first and foremost to the ASU Honey Beez, to Alabama State University, to the Alabama State University Marching Band, to Florida A&M University and to the fans and supporters of both institutions who were in attendance, or anyone else who heard my words. To anyone who was offended, I am truly sorry.”
The incident quickly spread across news outlets and social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. This led to reactions from FAMU faculty, alumni, and others regarding the offensive remark.
On September 27, Alabama State President Dr. Quinton T. Ross released a statement addressing the “distasteful” comments, according to the Montgomery Advertiser. Ross indicated that he conveyed his dissatisfaction with Bullard’s remarks to FAMU President Marva Johnson and the Commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
“The Honey Beez, along with Mighty Marching Hornets, dedicate countless hours to their craft to deliver unforgettable, show-stopping performances that embody the pride and excellece of Alabama State University. To have their artistry disrespected after such a performance is absolutely unacceptable,” Ross said in the statement.
“I stand firmly with the Honey Beez, the Mighty Marching Hornets, and our entire student body. Honey Beez, please know that you are celebrated, valued and admired for the joy you bring to Hornet Nation, and also for the bold and fearless way you represent the very best of ASU. Continue to shine, because your light cannot be dimmed by negativity.”
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FAMU President Johnson also issued a swift public apology after the ASU president condemned the comments as “demeaning” and “disparaging.”
“Florida A&M University is taking immediate steps to ensure accountability within our organization and to prevent incidents like this in the future,” Johnson wrote.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, October 1, the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) said it has fined FAMU $10,000 and suspended Bullard for the next two upcoming football games.
“Inappropriate conduct and invective language will always be met with strong action by the Southwestern Athletic Conference, and the Conference Office will continue to uphold a zero tolerance for such behavior,” SWAC said in its release. “The Conference Office acknowledges the apology issued by Florida A&M University and have trust that this type of occurrence will not happen again.”
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