UAB reverses decision to withdraw from gun violence prevention event

Update: UAB has issued a statement regarding the Ballers Against Bullets Symposium event:

"A misunderstanding regarding event approval protocols has been resolved so this event can take place at UAB, and we have contacted the organizer and offered to get a contract in place."

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- The University of Alabama at Birmingham has withdrawn support for an upcoming gun violence prevention event, according to a statement Friday from the Agency of Substance Abuse Prevention.

The Ballers Against Bullets Symposium, an event designed to address gun violence and substance misuse, was scheduled to take place Feb. 25 at the UAB Hill Student Center.

According to the ASAP, UAB cited a change in "programming focus" as its reasoning for withdrawing from the event.

"This decision comes after extensive planning, promotion, and financial commitments totaling approximately $25,000, including securing Dr. Myron Rolle—a Rhodes Scholar, neurosurgeon, and former NFL player—as the featured panelist," the ASAP said in a statement.

"We sincerely hope this decision is not linked to broader political trends surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as gun violence prevention should transcend political divides," the ASAP continued. "The abrupt cancellation also calls into question First Amendment rights and whether public institutions should be able to revoke access to spaces based on shifting internal priorities."

State Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham) called UAB's decision to withdraw support from the event "disappointing and disheartening."

“At a time when our community is grappling with the devastating impact of gun violence, it is disheartening to see a lack of institutional support for initiatives that seek to educate, uplift, and protect our youth,” Givan said in a statement. “Gun violence is not just a policy issue, it is a crisis that affects families, schools, and entire communities.”

Givan stated that UAB's decision raises concerns about the priorities being set for community engagement and violence prevention.