Luther Campbell, the Miami rapper and community activist, expressed public support for the Florida A&M Marching 100 announcer who received backlash for an insensitive remark about Alabama State dancers.
Joe Bullard, the longtime voice of FAMU athletics, came under fire after referencing Alabama State University’s Honey Beez plus-size dance team by saying they were the “face of Ozempic,” a medication commonly associated with weight loss.
The comment drew backlash for being inappropriate and disrespectful toward the dancers.
In a statement posted to social media, Campbell said he has known Bullard for more than 30 years and believes Bullard regrets his remarks. While acknowledging the need for accountability, Campbell argued that dismissal is not the appropriate action.
“I know in my heart that he would take back the words he chose, and he deeply regrets them,” Campbell wrote.
Alabama State president Quinton Ross Jr. released a statement after the game expressing displeasure with what Bullard said.
Florida A&M president Marva Johnson, in a statement posted to social media on Saturday night, denounced the comments made by the announcer:
“Such comments are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Johnson wrote in a portion of the letter.
Campbell added that Bullard has made significant contributions to the university and the broader community throughout his career. He suggested that a direct apology to the Honey Beez dancers, along with appropriate disciplinary action short of termination, would serve as a constructive resolution.
“Let this moment serve as a lesson for all of us,” Campbell concluded.
