The HBCU marching band at Talladega College ruffled some feathers when they decide to perform at President-elect Donald Trump’s inaugural parade. Many were dumb-founded as to why an HBCU marching band would perform at racist’s event.

Talladega College President, Dr. Bill Hawkins, has defended his decision to let his Talladega’s marching band participate in the inaugural parade.

“I did not view this as a political event …,” Dr. Hawkins told News One in an interview. “I view it as a civic ceremony and an opportunity for our students to observe the process of the transition of power.”

Confused and angry about the college’s decision many are not supporting them, which may be why they are having trouble raising money to cover the band’s travel expenses. Conservative commentator Armstrong Williams offered to pay the $60,000 the Talladega Marching Tornadoes need to make the journey to Pennsylvania Avenue. Dr. Hawkins has yet to accept his offer but said he is considering it.