The Internet Is Fuming After This Florida University Told A Student To Remove The Word "Black" From A Black History Month Flyer

Last week, anti-DEI policies had bizarre real-life consequences when a student at Florida A&M University (FAMU) was told to remove the word “Black” from a flyer promoting Black History Month events. Brick sign for Florida A&M University with its seal and "Established 1887" inscription, surrounded by blooming flowers and trees

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Law student Aaliyah Steward told an Orlando news outlet that a faculty member was concerned that using “Black” on school signage would violate Florida law, which prohibits public universities from using state funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Person in a suit gives thumbs up at a podium in front of American flags

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Steward said that “Black History Month” could be used in promotional materials only if abbreviated to “BHM.” She added that the words “affirmative action” and “women” were also banned from use. Poster for a BHM Talent Showcase on February 3, 2026, at 6 PM in the Student Lounge. Free entry. Promotes poetry, dance, film, and more. Accessible event “I was very angry and baffled because this is a Historically Black College and University,” Steward said. “For them to say we can’t use the word ‘Black’ was kind of insane.” Person with long hair and glasses looks thoughtful; a News 6 logo is in the corner

Initially, the school issued a statement indicating that the faculty member’s guidance complied with state law.

The statement reads, “Florida A&M University has consistently been in full compliance with Senate Bill 266 and Board of Governors’ Regulation 9.016. We support and have implemented the policy direction established by the Governor, the Legislature, and the Board of Governors as it relates to DEI, and consistent with related federal court rulings.”

However, increased media backlash seems to have led the university to reevaluate. In a statement obtained by the Tampa Bay Times, Cecil Howard, the associate provost and interim dean of Florida A&M’s College of Law, reframed the incident as a “staff-level error” caused by the faculty member’s “overly cautious” interpretation of state law. A man speaks at a podium labeled "Florida: The Education State" in front of a Florida flag and two U.S. flags, addressing an audience

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Howard said the school subsequently consulted a higher education law expert, who confirmed that writing the word “Black” does not violate any laws. Despite the eventual resolution, Steward said her BHM event needed to be postponed because the school “virtually ignored” her complaints until the public intervened. Shrubbery spelling "FAMU" in front of a brick Florida A&M University sign with surrounding greenery and historical markers

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Online, the situation has drawn lots of scrutiny, with many emphasizing how sad it is to see anti-Black censorship at a Historically Black University. One user said, “Imagine planning Black History Month events and being told you cannot even use the word ‘Black.’ At an HBCU.””a HBCU told a student to take the word Black off of a flyer ? I smell Republicans,” said another.Many wondered how Black students could still attend FAMU after a situation like this. Others took it even further, cautioning Black people against supporting Florida’s economy entirely. Tweet reads: "Black people, unless you're already living there, there is no reason we should be spending any money in the state of Florida."

While saddening, most agreed it’s hardly surprising, given Florida’s history with racist policies. Tweet by Archie W. King reads: "Soo...just History month? Yeah, that's Florida."

What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.It’s the 100th anniversary of Black History Month this year! Follow all of our coverage here. Of course, the content doesn’t end after February. Follow BuzzFeed’s Cocoa Butter on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to keep up with our latest Black culture content year-round. BuzzFeed Black History Month banner with vibrant African patterns and bold text highlighting the celebration