Longtime Florida A&M band announcer Joe Bullard has apologized for referring to Alabama State College’s plus-sized dance staff, the Honey Beez, as “the new face of Ozempic” throughout halftime at Saturday’s soccer sport.
“I want to sincerely apologize for my remarks in the course of the Florida A&M College vs. Alabama State College soccer sport this previous Saturday,” he wrote. “My feedback directed towards the ASU Honey Beez have been meant as lighthearted banter, however I now acknowledge that they got here throughout in a means that was hurtful and disrespectful.”
Bullard prolonged his “deepest and most heartfelt apologies” to not solely the dance staff, however to Alabama State’s Marching Hornets and the college as an entire. He additionally apologized to FAMU, his supporters and “anybody who was offended” by his rhetoric.
“Pleasant competitors and playful jesting have lengthy been part of HBCU [historically Black college and university] band tradition, however I’ve come to know that my phrases crossed a line,” he continued. “My intention was by no means to belittle or disrespect the unbelievable younger individuals who symbolize our faculties with such grace, expertise, and delight. They’re the embodiment of our tradition, they usually deserve nothing lower than our full respect.”
Talking as an “elder,” Bullard concluded by asking for the general public’s forgiveness and expressing hope that the HBCU neighborhood can transfer ahead.
Following Bullard’s remarks, FAMU President Marva Johnson issued a press release on behalf of the college addressing his feedback and noting that she had spoken with ASU President Quinton T. Ross.
“I’ve spoken instantly with President Ross to convey my remorse and to reaffirm that such feedback are unacceptable and won’t be tolerated,” Johnson mentioned. “Florida A&M College is taking fast steps to make sure accountability inside our group and to forestall incidents like this sooner or later.”
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Ross additionally issued a press release of his personal, expressing his help for the ASU dance staff.
“I’ve personally spoken with the President of Florida A&M College and with the Commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Convention to specific my displeasure with these short-sighted feedback, they usually have each affirmed their settlement with my sentiments,” Ross mentioned, calling Bullard’s statements “completely unacceptable.”
