HBCUs Across U.S. Receive Threats Prompting Lockdowns
Multiple historically Black colleges and universities implemented lockdowns and canceled classes following threats received shortly after the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Several historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the United States received threats on Thursday, leading to campus lockdowns and class cancellations. This occurred a day after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University.
Institutions including Virginia State University, Hampton University, Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, Southern University, Clark Atlanta University, and Spelman College reported receiving threats. In response, these universities implemented shelter-in-place orders and suspended campus activities to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Virginia State University President Makola M. Abdullah addressed the community, stating, "Today, Virginia State University – along with several other Historically Black Colleges and Universities – received a threat intended to disrupt, intimidate and instill fear in our community." The university enacted a temporary campus lockdown before lifting it with restrictions, limiting access to students, faculty, and staff with valid identification.
The FBI acknowledged awareness of these threats, describing them as "hoax threat calls" and indicating no information to suggest a credible threat. The agency emphasized the seriousness with which it treats such threats, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.
While most affected universities have since lifted their lockdowns, many have maintained enhanced security measures and canceled classes through the weekend as investigations continue. The coordinated nature of these threats has raised concerns about the targeted harassment of Black students and educational institutions.
These incidents follow a pattern of threats against HBCUs. In early 2022, the FBI investigated similar threats, later charging an individual with making dozens of racist threats targeting these institutions.
The recent threats have prompted calls for thorough investigations and heightened security measures to protect students and staff at HBCUs nationwide.