Coordinated Racist Death Threats Target Black Students Across US Colleges

Recently, Black students at various institutions across the United States faced a series of coordinated racist death threats, prompting emergency lockdowns at at least seven historically Black colleges. This disturbing wave of threats came just a day after the tragic death of far-right activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, amplifying fears among the affected communities.

At New York University, Black students were specifically targeted with a manifesto that included graphic threats of violence. An email from the university’s Black Student Union detailed how the manifesto depicted a clear intention to harm Black students, reflecting disturbing views that they were encroaching on a perceived safe space for white individuals. The Black Student Union expressed frustration over the administration's delay in communicating the threat, waiting for over six hours before informing students of the specific targeting.

A range of HBCUs, including Alabama State University, Virginia State University, and Hampton University, implemented lockdown measures in response to the threats received. Leaders at these institutions underscored the seriousness of the situation, with Virginia State University’s president remarking that the threats were meant to instill fear and disrupt their community. Operations at Alabama State University were similarly suspended, and restrictions on access were put into place, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.

In the wake of these threats, the FBI acknowledged that it was aware of hoax calls targeting several HBCUs. The agency emphasized the gravity of such threats and urged the public to report any suspicious activity. While most universities have lifted their lockdowns, they continue to maintain heightened security protocols as investigations by federal and local law enforcement proceed.

The current threats follow a history of targeted intimidation against HBCUs, which saw similar incidents investigated by the FBI in 2022. Virginia State University's president spoke forcefully against the attempts to intimidate their community, declaring that they would not be silenced or frightened by such acts of hatred.