Joe Bullard, the longtime voice of FAMU’s celebrated Marching 100 band, issued a public apology Monday night for comments he made about the Alabama State University Marching Band and its famed Honey Beez dancers, calling his remarks “hurtful and disrespectful” after they ignited a social media firestorm.
The apology, posted to his personal Facebook page, came two days after FAMU’s president, Marva Johnson, publicly condemned the comments, calling them “inappropriate and offensive.”
“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,” Mr. 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 FAMU, and to the fans and supporters of both institutions.”
“Friendly competition and playful jesting have long been a part of HBCU band culture, but I have come to understand that my words crossed a line,” he wrote. “My intention was never to belittle or disrespect the incredible young people who represent our schools with such grace, talent, and pride.”
The response from FAMU’s administration was swift. In a statement released on Saturday, Johnson offered the university's public apology and sought to distance the university from the announcer’s remarks.
“The comments made about the ASU Honey Beez do not reflect the values of FAMU or the deep respect we hold for our fellow HBCUs and their students,” she said.
Mr. Bullard, a FAMU alumnus and a fixture at the university’s athletic events for decades, is known for his energetic and colorful commentary. His distinctive voice and lighthearted banter are a beloved part of the game-day experience for Rattlers fans.
The apology was met with acceptance online. With many calling it a necessary step toward reconciliation.