Donald Trump

Band at Historically Black Alabama College to March at Inauguration, Sparking Controversy

Other historically black schools, including Howard University, said they did not apply to march in the parade

Organizers of President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural parade say the marching band of Alabama's oldest private, historically black liberal arts college, Talladega College, has accepted an invitation to perform.

Friday's announcement comes as historically black schools including Howard University, which marched in President Barack Obama's first inaugural parade, said they did not apply to march at Trump's inauguration.

The news has lit up Talladega College's social media sites with a sharp debate about the band's decision to participate. Some people voiced strong opposition, while others supported the band's participation.

Talladega College officials did not immediately return phone calls and emails seeking comment.

The news is part of the Presidential Inaugural Committee's larger announcement Friday of the 40 organizations, including several military and veterans groups, that will march in Trump's inaugural parade.

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No high school or university marching band in the D.C. area will march in the parade.

News4 reported earlier this month that no D.C. public school marching bands had applied to participate, after at least one local band played in the past five parades.

Two groups from Northern Virginia will perform: the U.S. Army's Caisson Platoon from Fort Myer and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) from Arlington.

The Caisson Platoon is comprised of soldiers on horseback who lead fallen service members to rest in Arlington National Cemetery.

TAPS serves people grieving the death of a loved one who served in the Armed Forces.

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