WBHM Radio Station Required to Start Calling The Gulf of Mexico, "The Gulf of America"

Map via NOAA

The following is an actual email posted to Facebook regarding radio station WBHM in Birmingham, Alabama.

The email was sent in late September 2026 by the director of WBHM radio regarding the state's directives to the station about the Gulf of Mexico renamed to the Gulf of America.

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"Friends and listeners,

One of our values at WBHM is transparency. It’s part of our Code of Integrity for both our journalism and business operations. Because of that, I feel it is imperative to share an update with you regarding a mandated change to language that WBHM will be expected to follow under state law effective October 1, 2026.

Governor Kay Ivey signed House Bill 2 into law earlier this year, which requires “all state and local entities and their employees” to use “Gulf of America” in place of “Gulf of Mexico.” This includes maps, documents, websites, and “official communications.”

WBHM is licensed to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), thus every member of our team is an employee of UAB and a state employee. The WBHM team is expected to abide by the same laws, rules, and guidelines as every department, along with the complicated FCC regulations for a non-commercial radio station, which we have done so without question.  

Following conversations with individuals at UAB and the UA System, I have been told that every single communication from WBHM and its team members, made in the capacity of their role as employees, is considered “official communication.” For WBHM, that includes our broadcasts.  

Journalistic independence is foundational to a news organization. It’s a key part of how we maintain your trust. This law threatens that independence. It also puts us at odds with our partners at NPR, the Associated Press, and others who will continue to use “Gulf of Mexico.” 

While the law contains no enforcement mechanism or penalties, there is a reasonable expectation of state agencies to make sure it is implemented, enforced, and complied with, including at WBHM.

In short, our team will be expected to use “Gulf of America” in place of “Gulf of Mexico” starting on October 1. I was told that deviations from the law may result in disciplinary action or termination of employees, and failure to comply may impact WBHM’s relationship and support from UAB. Admittedly, I do not envy the significant constraints and expectations placed upon UAB and state institutions navigating those politics.

These are the facts as I understand them and am able to share them. As the current leader of WBHM, I feel it is imperative for you and others who count on WBHM to know what is happening and why in advance of October 1.

I have always enjoyed hearing thoughts from listeners, good and bad. However, I will be leaving my position in mid-October. With that, my duties are being turned over to Stephen Murray, UAB’s Executive Director of Business Operations. He can be reached with comments or concerns by email or by calling 205-975-5209."