Reps. Sewell and Figures Call on The University of Alabama to Restore Student Publications

December 17, 2025

Two Alabama congressional representatives have sent a letter to the University of Alabama's president challenging the school's recent suspension of two student-run magazines. The university halted publication of Alice Magazine, a fashion and wellness publication, and Nineteen Fifty-Six, which focuses on Black student experiences, citing the need to comply with federal anti-discrimination guidance issued by Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding DEI initiatives. Representatives Sewell and Figures argue that the suspension threatens free speech and academic freedom while undermining the university's commitment to inclusivity.

Who is affected

Staff and editors of Alice Magazine and Nineteen Fifty-Six student publications
Women students at the University of Alabama
Black/African American students at the University of Alabama
University of Alabama President Dr. Peter Mohler and university leadership
U.S. Representatives Terri A. Sewell (AL-07) and Shomari C. Figures (AL-02)
Gabrielle Gunter, editor-in-chief of Alice Magazine
Students who read and contribute to these publications

What action is being taken

Representatives Sewell and Figures are sending a letter to University President Dr. Peter Mohler
The representatives are requesting a meeting with university leadership
The University of Alabama has suspended both Alice Magazine and Nineteen Fifty-Six publications

Why it matters

This decision has profound implications for free speech, academic freedom, and inclusive campus environments at public universities. The suspension sets a concerning precedent that student expression reflecting the experiences of women, African American students, or other underrepresented groups could be deemed impermissible discrimination. The case represents broader tensions between federal pressure on universities regarding DEI initiatives and institutional commitments to protecting diverse voices and perspectives. It raises questions about how far universities will go to comply with federal guidance and whether other programs serving underrepresented groups, such as African American Studies or Women's Studies, could face similar scrutiny.

What's next

Representatives Sewell and Figures are requesting a meeting with University President Dr. Peter Mohler at his earliest convenience
The university has pledged to replace the two magazines with a single consolidated publication intended to reflect all students' perspectives
The lawmakers are seeking to discuss steps needed to restore Nineteen Fifty-Six and Alice as student-run publications

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint