Written By Lexx Thornton
The HBCU community is reacting to a halftime controversy from Saturday’s football game between Alabama State University and FAMU. Inside Bragg Memorial Stadium, Alabama State’s Honey Beez — the well-known plus-sized dance team that performs with the Mighty Marching Hornets — became the target of an offensive remark.
As the Honey Beez left the field after their performance, Florida A&M band announcer Joe Bullard called them “the new face of Ozempic.” The crowd reacted with shock and disgust. Soon after, the incident spread on social media and quickly ignited outrage across the HBCU landscape.
Alabama State University President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. issued a forceful statement. He described the announcer’s words as “short-sighted” and “demeaning.” Ross emphasized that competition should not come at the expense of student dignity.
“While we recognize the spirit of competition, there is no place for disparaging or demeaning remarks directed at our scholars,” Ross wrote. He also spoke directly with FAMU’s president and with the Southwestern Athletic Conference commissioner. Both leaders agreed with his position.
Ross praised the Honey Beez and the Mighty Marching Hornets for their dedication. He explained that they spend countless hours preparing “unforgettable” and “show-stopping” shows that display Alabama State pride. Speaking directly to the Honey Beez, Ross added: “Please know that you are celebrated, valued, and admired for the joy you bring to the Hornet Nation, and for the bold and fearless way you represent the very best of ASU.”
Johnson called the remark “inappropriate and offensive.” She stressed that it does not represent FAMU’s values or its respect for other HBCUs. “On behalf of Florida A&M University, I extend my deepest and sincerest apologies to the Honey Beez, the Mighty Marching Hornets, President Quinton Ross, and the entire Alabama State University community,” she wrote.
Johnson also praised the Honey Beez, calling them a team that “represents discipline, school pride, and performance tradition respected across the nation.” She confirmed that she had spoken with Ross to share her regret. In addition, she pledged that Florida A&M will take “immediate steps to ensure accountability within our organization and to prevent incidents like this in the future.”
