An Ohio State University alum is speaking out after what many are calling blatant disrespect toward the Grambling State University “World Famed Tiger Marching Band.” The incident, which took place during Grambling’s halftime performance at Ohio Stadium, has sparked outrage across the HBCU community and raised questions about how predominantly white institutions host and honor visiting HBCU bands.
The Incident at Ohio Stadium
During Saturday’s game, Grambling’s band was scheduled to perform, but according to alum Penny Miller, the university failed to give them the respect they deserved. In her widely discussed op-ed, Miller revealed that whenever Grambling prepared to play, the stadium blasted music over the sound system, effectively drowning out the band’s performance.
For those familiar with HBCU culture, the issue wasn’t just about noise levels—it was about tradition and respect. HBCU marching bands are a vital part of the Black college experience, known for their precision, showmanship, and community impact. The “back-and-forth” spirit of bands engaging with the crowd and each other is an art form deeply rooted in HBCU culture. To stifle that presence, intentionally or not, sends a message that their contributions aren’t valued.
A Call to Leadership
Miller didn’t mince words. She described Ohio State’s handling of the situation as “shameful,” pointing the finger at university leadership—including the president, athletic director, and band director—for failing to ensure visiting performers were treated with dignity. Her argument goes beyond game-day logistics: she’s demanding accountability and systemic change.
The alum stressed that both home and visiting band members put in countless hours of practice and sacrifice. Their performances are more than entertainment—they’re a representation of identity, excellence, and cultural pride. By failing to silence the stadium music during Grambling’s time, Ohio State denied them the platform they rightfully earned.
Why It Matters for HBCUs
HBCU bands like Grambling’s “World Famed” aren’t simply part of the halftime show—they are the show. For decades, HBCU bands have carried traditions that extend beyond athletics, shaping community pride and serving as cultural ambassadors on some of the nation’s biggest stages.
When HBCU bands travel to perform at PWIs, the expectation is that their artistry will be respected. Instances like this highlight ongoing challenges of visibility and respect that HBCUs continue to face. The issue becomes larger than one game—it reflects how institutions value Black culture and contributions within majority-white spaces.
The Bigger Conversation
This controversy has sparked a larger dialogue within both HBCU and Ohio State circles. Should universities establish clearer guidelines to protect guest bands’ performance time? How do institutions ensure inclusivity when showcasing diverse traditions on their stages?
Advocates argue that sound checks, coordination between athletic departments and band directors, and strict rules about silencing stadium music during visiting band performances are easy fixes. More importantly, they believe universities need to acknowledge the cultural significance of HBCU bands, treating them as headliners rather than background entertainment.
A Teachable Moment
While Ohio State has not issued a formal response, the incident is already being viewed as a teachable moment. For Grambling and other HBCUs, it’s another reminder of the ongoing fight for recognition and equity—not just in academics and funding, but in cultural representation.
For Miller and countless HBCU supporters, the takeaway is clear: respect for HBCU bands is non-negotiable. If institutions want to invite these world-class performers to their fields, then they must also create space for their voices—literally and figuratively—to be heard.