Tuskegee University marching band members are threatening to quit performing at school events to protest a lack of resources and support.
Members cited a lack of funding that makes traveling performing difficult, a lack of qualified staff and insufficient communications about what’s going on with band practices and performances, AL.com reported.
“We will no longer allow the inefficient operation of a program that we pour countless hours of energy into. We will no longer allow ourselves to be exploited simply on the basis that we ‘signed up for it.’ And we will no longer allow for the apathetic nature that has been granted to us, as we strive to not only hold our leadership accountable but our fellow band members both current and future,’” members are quoted as saying in a statement.
Band members met with officials from the school but no resolution was announced.
Tuskegee President Charlotte Morris has called the band an important part of the university family and said the administration looks forward to working with members to respond to their concerns.