The suspension is lifted. FAMU’s Marching 100 will return to halftime lights during the MEAC-SWAC Challenge game in Orlando, the first performance by the band since Nov. 19, 2011.
“We are going to publicly state that we are bringing this band back and we are going to take the field in Orlando,” FAMU Band Director Sylvester Young said. “And without any reservation, knowing that when we take the field we will not be stepping back in time but we will be cutting a new path.”
A medical examiner ruled that head drum major Robert Champion, 26, was beaten to death in a hazing incident Friday night after the Marching 100’s last performance. The band was later suspended indefinitely.
Interim President Larry Robinson said the FAMU Marching 100 will serve as a national model that hazing can be eradicated. He said hazing is not the answer and brought the ‘new era’ in with four core values: character, leadership, academics and service.
“We are fairly confident that we are about to launch a new era, a new understanding and appreciation as to why hazing is not necessary to advance these principles that I just mentioned for this marching band, as well as any other organization on this campus,” said Robinson.
