Controversy over black marching band's decision to play Donald Trump's inauguration

  • Published
This is a photo of the Marching Tornados drumming in a parade.Image source, Marching Tornado Media/ Facebook

A marching band at a black college in Alabama has sparked debate after agreeing to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration.

The Marching Tornados from Talladega College have accepted an invitation to the event on 20 January, according to ceremony organisers.

That's despite other black schools refusing to take part.

Former members of the school say they're "horrified" by the decision.

Talledega College is a known as a historically black college (HBCU). These colleges were originally created to help black Americans.

According to the college's website, it was founded in 1867 by the descendants of slaves who helped build the first building.

And the decision to perform has divided opinion amongst other HBCUs and former students.

"We were a bit horrified to hear of the invitation," said Shirley Ferrill, a member of Talladega's Class of 1974.

"I don't want my alma mater to give the appearance of supporting him [Trump].

"Ignore, decline or whatever, but please don't send our band out in our name to do that," she added.

There's been criticism on Twitter too...

This tweet says "So Talladega College band playing for Donald Trump's inauguration . How can you tarnish the legacy of an HBCU by associating it w| Trump?", external

This tweet says "you can say no some of the time", external

This shows Melanie's reaction to the decision., external

On the college's social media sites, people have questioned why the school would want to take part.

"After how black people were treated at Trump's rallies, you're going to go and shuck and jive down Pennsylvania Avenue? For what?'' said one user.

Other HBCUs - including Howard University which performed at Barack Obama's first inauguration - have refused to take part.

But although many people see the band's move as controversial, others see the decision as a step in the right direction.

Success is colour blind..., external

"Finally some people want to unite our country.", external

People are also asking whether the band will stick to tradition by performing patriotic songs or make a stand by playing something related to their school's cultural legacy.

This comes as reports from the US suggest Donald Trump is struggling to find A-list stars who're prepared to appear at the inauguration.

Rebecca Ferguson said she would perform but only if she was allowed to sing Strange Fruit - which describes the lynching of African Americans in the early 20th century.

It includes the lyrics: "Black bodies swinging in the southern breeze".

So far, there's been no comment from the band or the college.

Find us on Instagram at BBCNewsbeat, external and follow us on Snapchat, search for bbc_newsbeat