A spate of terroristic threats targeting historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) disrupted campuses across the nation Thursday, forcing lockdowns, class cancellations, and urgent security overhauls. At least seven institutions, including Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Spelman College, issued shelter-in-place orders or shifted to remote operations after receiving anonymous threats, though no credible dangers were found.
FAMU, while not directly threatened, preemptively moved all main and satellite campus classes to virtual learning through Friday and mandated remote work for nonessential employees. Evening events and athletic practices, however, continued under bolstered security. The threats come amid a broader pattern of fake emergency calls targeting American universities in recent weeks, reigniting concerns about the vulnerability of HBCUs, which faced similar bomb threats during Black History Month in 2022.
Proactive measures and political outcry
FAMU’s administration emphasized “proactive measures to protect our student body” in a campus-wide alert, noting that its police department had coordinated with state and federal agencies to monitor the situation. “The safety of every individual on our campus is our highest priority,” the statement read.
The threats drew sharp condemnation from lawmakers, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) demanding the Justice Department and FBI investigate potential “acts of domestic terrorism” targeting Black students. US Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), vice chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, echoed calls for a full probe, posting on X: “These threats must be taken seriously—no community should live in fear.”
US Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) lamented the trauma inflicted on HBCU communities, writing, “These campuses have been safe havens since their creation. I’m not sure why they’ve become a target today, but it is not okay.”
Football game to proceed amid tensions
Despite the turmoil, FAMU officials confirmed Saturday’s high-stakes home football game against Albany State will proceed as scheduled, though with enhanced security protocols. The decision followed internal discussions about postponing or cancelling the event altogether.
Broader context and historical precedent
The threats arrive as HBCUs, which serve nearly 300,000 students nationwide, grapple with their dual role as educational institutions and cultural sanctuaries. Many were founded during segregation to provide Black Americans access to higher education, and their campuses remain potent symbols of resilience.
Ongoing investigations
Authorities have not yet determined whether Thursday’s threats are connected or racially motivated. The FBI confirmed it is assisting local law enforcement but declined to comment further.
For now, campuses like FAMU remain on edge, navigating a reality where vigilance is paramount—and where the echoes of history weigh heavily on the present.