“I would like to sincerely apologize for my remarks during the Florida A & M University v. Alabama State University football game this past Saturday,” Joe Bullard said, announcer and commentator for the game. “My comments directed toward the ASU Honey Beez were meant as light-hearted banter, but I now recognize that they came across in a way that was hurtful and disrespectful. 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.”
Bullard sent out this apology after the historically Black college and university (HBCU) community reacted to a comment where he referenced the Honey Beez as “the face of Ozempic” after the well-known plus-sized dance team became the target of what many considered an offensive remark. 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 Quinton T. Ross Jr., Ed.D., issued a forceful statement. He described the announcer’s words as “short-sighted” and “demeaning.” Ross stressed that competition cannot 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 Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University 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 university 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.”
Shortly after Ross’ statement, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University President Marva Johnson, J.D., released her own response. She apologized to Alabama State University, the Honey Beez, and the entire Hornet Nation.
Johnson called the remark “inappropriate and offensive.” She stressed that it does not represent Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University’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, 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.”
Founded in 2004, the Honey Beez are the first HBCU dance team exclusively comprised of plus-sized women, and a vital part of the university’s Mighty Marching Hornets. James Oliver, Ed.D., the university’s band director, formed the group to provide a sisterhood space for plus-sized dancers to show off their skills. In addition to their grueling performance schedule, they must be enrolled as full-time students at the university and maintain a decent grade average to be a part of the team.
The majorette experience has been an integral part of the HBCU experience, but has often been characterized by slim dancers. When the Honey Beez take the field, they stand for inclusivity, buzzing off notions that our community must still conform to Eurocentric beauty standards while making a bold statement about self-love and acceptance.
