FAMU Law Students Barred from Using 'Black' in Campus Event Promotions

New state restrictions on diversity initiatives force HBCU to limit language in student group materials.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Students at Florida A&M University's College of Law say they are no longer allowed to use the word 'Black' in promotional materials for campus events, including for Black History Month, due to new state restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The university says it is complying with state legislation and regulations that prohibit the use of state or federal funds for DEI initiatives.

Why it matters

The crackdown on DEI efforts at Florida's public universities, including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like FAMU, reflects a broader political debate over the role of race-conscious policies in education. Critics argue that such policies are divisive, while supporters say they are necessary to promote equity and inclusion.

The details

Aaliyah Steward, a third-year law student at FAMU, said her organization, the Black Law Students Association, faced pushback when trying to promote events. Steward said certain words, including 'Black,' 'affirmative action,' and 'women,' were 'flagged' and could not be used. The university stated it remains in 'full compliance' with state legislation and regulations prohibiting the use of state or federal funds for DEI programs.

  • In February 2026, FAMU law students were barred from using the word 'Black' in campus event promotions.

The players

Aaliyah Steward

A third-year law student at Florida A&M University's College of Law.

Florida A&M University

A historically Black college and university (HBCU) located in Tallahassee, Florida.

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What they’re saying

“We couldn't use the word 'Black' in Black History Month. We would have to abbreviate it. I was very angry and baffled because this is a Historically Black College and University, and for them to say we can't use the word 'Black' was kind of insane.”

— Aaliyah Steward, Law Student (News 6)

What’s next

The FAMU administration may face continued pressure from students and civil rights advocates to challenge the state's restrictions on DEI programs and language use.

The takeaway

The restrictions on using the word 'Black' at an HBCU highlight the broader political debate over diversity initiatives in education, with critics arguing such policies are divisive and supporters saying they are necessary for equity and inclusion.