Florida A&M University Cites ‘Staff-Level Error’ After Students Say Black History Month Flyers Were Censored Over Certain Words – AfroTech
As AFROTECH™ previously reported, students at Florida A&M University (FAMU) have run into difficulties while promoting events for Black History Month, saying the university’s approval process flags certain words, including the word “Black.”
Aaliyah Steward, a final-year law student, brought the issue to News 6, which reported the story on Feb. 6, 2026. Steward told News 6 that her organization, the Black Law Students Association, had to abbreviate the language used on Black History Month flyers, noting that they also couldn’t use the words “women” or “affirmative action.”
News 6’s report garnered widespread public attention and social media reaction, including from prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump and Grammy Award-winning artist SZA, notes the outlet.
On Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, FAMU responded, citing a “staff-level error” that caused the issue. News 9 reported that internal university emails suggested that the words weren’t prohibited, but that the issue stemmed from an overly cautious interpretation of state law prohibiting diversity, equity, and inclusion programming from receiving state funding.
Steward told News 9 that their coverage made all the difference.
“I was very happy that what’s going on may change now that the public is involved and it’s been brought to light,” Steward shared.
“I was glad that a lot of people were having the same reactions that we had — that we broke the news that we were being censored in this way,” she added.
As AFROTECH™ previously told you, Florida’s public universities cannot use state or federal funds for certain diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives following Governor Ron DeSantis’ passage of Senate Bill 266.
When News 6 initially brought Steward’s concerns to the university, officials said they were in full compliance with the legislation, per the outlet.
University Officials Clarify ‘Black’ Does Not Violate State Law
However, FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D., has since clarified that the use of the word “Black” does not violate state law.
“As the state’s only public Historically Black University, the word ‘Black’ is central to the mission and identity of Florida A&M University,” Dr. Johnson said, News 6 reports. “We take seriously our responsibility to communicate clearly and consistently on matters of law, governance, and public accountability. The University unequivocally confirms that the use of the word ‘Black,’ or the phrase ‘Black History Month,’ does not violate the letter, spirit, or intent of Florida Senate Bill 266, Board of Governors Regulation 9.016, or any relevant federal guidance.”
The College of Law’s interim dean, Cecil Howard, also addressed the situation with students in detail, notes News 9. Howard said he held multiple meetings with students and staff, conducted an internal review of the matter, and will implement any required corrective actions.
