HBCUs Restrict Activities After Series of Hoax Threats

Lead: Multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the United States went into lockdown or canceled classes on Friday after receiving hoax threats targeting campus safety, prompting FBI and law enforcement investigations.

Nut Graf: The wave of false alerts disrupted academic schedules at institutions in Virginia, Alabama, Louisiana and Florida, highlighting the persistent threat of hate-driven intimidation against Black educational institutions and drawing condemnation from federal and community leaders.

Threats Prompt Lockdowns and Cancellations

Several HBCUs enacted immediate safety measures on Thursday and extended them into Friday:

  • Hampton University (VA) suspended all nonessential campus activities through Friday, evacuating staff and sheltering students in place.
  • Alabama State University (AL) halted operations after receiving a reported threat and advised students to remain indoors even after gaining an “all-clear.”
  • Southern University and A&M College (LA) locked down its Baton Rouge campus, later canceling classes and events for the rest of the week.
  • Bethune-Cookman University (FL) and Clark Atlanta University (GA) issued shelter-in-place orders and restricted movement on campus grounds.

FBI Labels Calls “Hoax Threats”

The FBI confirmed it is aware of “hoax threat calls” to multiple HBCUs and stressed that while no credible threat has been identified, these false reports pose real risks to campus communities and will be vigorously investigated.

Political and Community Response

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned the threats as “abhorrent” and urged the Department of Justice to treat them as domestic terrorism. Representative Troy Carter described the incidents as “reprehensible attacks” on institutions representing Black excellence and opportunity.

Historical Context and Extremism Concerns

HBCUs have faced similar intimidation in recent years, including bomb threats in 2022 affecting dozens of campuses. Civil rights advocates warn that such hate-motivated hoaxes reflect a growing trend of extremist targeting of Black communities.

Campus Safety Measures Underway

Local and federal law enforcement remain on heightened alert, with increased patrols and security screenings at affected campuses. Administrators are reviewing emergency protocols and reinforcing communication channels to ensure rapid response to any future threats.