University of Alabama Suspends Two Student Publications Over State Policy

The University of Alabama has suspended operations for two student-run magazines, *Nineteen Fifty-Six* and *Alice*. University officials informed the publications' staff that the magazines are not compliant with a recent state directive on diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) programs. The state's action refers to a guidance memo from Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. That memo broadly interprets a state executive order to restrict D.E.I. programs in public institutions. *Nineteen Fifty-Six* is a magazine focused on the Black student experience. *Alice* is a magazine for women and nonbinary students. Both are funded through the university's student media fee. Officials placed the magazines on "inactive status." This means they cannot publish, recruit staff, or use university funds. The university stated it is working to create a new, compliant structure for all student organizations affected by the policy. The publications' staff have expressed disappointment. They argue their magazines provide vital platforms for underrepresented voices on campus. The university has not specified a timeline for resolving the suspensions.