University of Alabama closes Black, female student publications

The University of Alabama has halted operations of two student-run, university-funded magazines, referencing a federal directive on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies issued by Attorney General Pam Bondi. The publications Alice, which focuses on fashion and wellness for women, and Nineteen Fifty-Six, which highlights Black student life and culture began in 2015 and 2020, respectively, according to the universitys student newspaper, Crimson White.

Gabrielle Gunter, editor-in-chief of Alice, expressed her disappointment: It is heartbreaking that so much effort poured into these magazines is now being censored. Alice introduced me to journalism, and losing spaces like Alice and Nineteen Fifty-Six is a huge setback for students who want to create diverse and meaningful content. Gunter shared with the New York Times that the team was preparing the next issue when the suspension was announced.

Kendal Wright, who leads Nineteen Fifty-Six, said she felt deeply saddened by the decision, noting, This magazine has nurtured talented Black student journalists and brought our campus community together in a unique way.

Earlier in July, Bondi released a memo advising institutions receiving federal funds on how to avoid practices deemed illegal under the Trump administrations guidance. The memo stated that the Justice Department would investigate, eliminate, and penalize unlawful DEI programs and activities in both private sectors and educational institutions that receive federal funding.

Steven Hood, vice president of student life at the university, explained that the magazines were considered unlawful proxies because they target specific audiences. He emphasized that the decision was made by the university itself and was not prompted by any complaint. Hood also invited the editors to collaborate on creating a new publication that would be inclusive of all student identities.

According to Crimson White, neither magazine restricted participation based on race or gender, and both included staff members who were outside the intended audience. A university spokesperson, Alex House, said, The University remains committed to supporting all members of our community while ensuring compliance with legal obligations. This includes maintaining inclusive participation in programs funded by the Office of Student Media. House added that students First Amendment rights would remain fully protected.

Author: Gavin Porter