The traditions of Florida A&M University’s homecoming are like no other. Streets are filled with food, clothes, and jewelry vendors and alumni come from all over the nation decked out in orange and green; while a week-long list of activities build up excitement amongst students for the big game. However, this year’s festivities will be missing a sacred component that will test the spirit of rattlers young and old.
Since November of 2011, the famed ‘Marching 100’ band has been under suspension following an alleged hazing incident that resulted in the death of FAMU student and band drum major, Robert Champion.
The ‘Marching 100’, an organization that has grown from a mere 16 instrument band to a population of over 400 members, is a highlighted feature at rattler events, including the homecoming convocation and football game.
Fast forward to November 2012, and the band’s suspension has yet to be lifted.
“This homecoming has definitely been affected by the absence of the band, there is a lack of school spirit,” says nursing student Joanna Anorue. “Especially the freshmen,” adds Anorue, “They don’t really know what the college experience is like or what FAMU is all about.”
Anorue became a member of the ‘Marching 100’ in the fall of 2009. The trumpet player says nothing can replace the band. “The guest artists they’ve brought to the games have been okay but it’s not the same.” Although Anorue has hope for the return of the band next year, she doesn’t think anyone really knows what’s going to happen.
Erika Nnadi, a pre-physical therapy student from Miami, Fla., is rarely active on campus but can certainly see the drop in morale this year. “It’s almost non-existent.” Nnadi admitted her homecoming never included interaction with the band until that Saturday’s game, but the feeling was still there. “I think what will be missed most about them this year is the camaraderie, they really did bring everyone together.”
Current students are not the only audience affected by the absence of the band. ’93 FAMU grad, Stephen Nance, Programming Director in the Office of New Student Orientation at FAMU, felt like the ‘Marching 100’ was a part of the game. “We’ve missed them all season, and there will definitely be a void this homecoming. They are a big missing piece of homecoming overall, it loses a little shine this year.” Nance thinks it has stopped a few rattlers from attending the festivities but the majority will still show up.
Despite the conditions, many true rattlers are still here to celebrate the history and progression of this great university. Although the future of the band is unknown, fans have hope that they will make their return sooner than expected.
Nance added, “I strongly believe after this year the 100 will be back and better than ever.”