Florida's 'gator bait' cheer, banned in '20, revived at opener
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The University of Florida reinstated its "gator bait" cheer during its season opener after banning it over six years ago due to its association with racist imagery from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
- New UF President Stuart Bell emphasized the importance of traditions and supported the cheer's return, which was met with enthusiastic approval from fans during the game against Florida Atlantic.
- The original ban, announced by former President Kent Fuchs in June 2020, was part of a broader national reckoning on race following George Floyd's murder, citing concerns over the cheer's historical racial undertones.
- Bell's presidency follows significant changes at UF, including the elimination of all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) positions and programs in 2024 due to a new state rule, with DEI funding redirected to faculty recruitment.
