University of Alabama closes magazines for Black, female students

MONTGOMERY, Alabama The University of Alabama has announced the suspension of two student-led magazines, one centering on Black students and the other on womens issues, following federal guidance challenging diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at universities.

The editors of Nineteen Fifty-Six and Alice were notified on Monday that their publications would cease immediately. According to one editor, a university official referenced guidance issued in July by Attorney General Pamela Bondi, which outlined what the previous administration deemed unlawful discrimination at federally funded institutions.

This decision aligns with broader national trends as colleges respond to directives from President Donald Trump aimed at limiting diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus. The university cited the magazines primary audiences as the reason for the suspension, although both publications allowed anyone to join their staff.

Alice editor-in-chief Gabrielle Gunter expressed deep disappointment over the move, noting that the magazine had recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. It was completely shocking. I thought we were protected under the First Amendment and freedom of the press, Gunter said.

During the meeting, Steven Hood, vice president for student life, explained that the university was withdrawing support based on DEI guidance. He referenced the Bondi memo, suggesting the magazines might be in violation of federal rules concerning unlawful proxies, which are defined as criteria that indirectly consider race, sex, or other protected characteristics. Hood indicated that targeting women as a primary audience could be seen as a violation.

The latest edition of Alice combined lifestyle and political content, covering topics such as affordable alternatives to luxury cosmetics, misogyny in heavy metal music, and reproductive rights politics. Nineteen Fifty-Six, named for the year the first Black student enrolled at the university, has been in circulation for five years, highlighting stories on international students and fostering campus community amid rollbacks of diversity programs.

As Editor-In-Chief, I am heartbroken but not entirely surprised by the universitys decision, given the current national climate. Our students have dedicated immense effort and passion to this magazine over five years, said Kendal Wright, editor of Nineteen Fifty-Six.

Last year, the university also closed dedicated spaces for the Black Student Union and LGBTQ+ resource center, citing new state legislation restricting DEI initiatives. Alex House, a university spokesperson, emphasized that the institution remains committed to supporting all students while complying with legal requirements. She affirmed that students First Amendment rights are unaffected and mentioned plans to launch a new student magazine with a wider audience.

The Bondi memo outlines numerous practices considered unlawful by the Justice Department, including scholarships restricted to students of a certain race. Gunter said her team was preparing the next semesters edition when the university announced the suspension and that they were distributing the current issue to students to ensure it reached readers rather than being discarded.

Author: Zoe Harrison