Several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States were forced into lockdown on Thursday after receiving vague but alarming threats.
Classes were canceled, students were told to shelter in place, and heightened security was rolled out as federal and local law enforcement investigated the incidents.
Why These Threats Matter
This isn’t the first time HBCUs have been targeted. In 2022, a wave of bomb threats aimed at HBCUs triggered a federal hate crime investigation.
The FBI classified those attacks as racially motivated violent extremism, bringing to light the disturbing trend of targeted threats against institutions created to uplift Black communities through education.
This week’s threats once again raise serious concerns about the safety and security of HBCU campuses—and the ongoing effort to disrupt these pillars of Black excellence and empowerment.
Which HBCUs Were Affected?
At least six prominent HBCUs responded to potential threats:
- Virginia State University (VSU): Issued a shelter-in-place order and canceled afternoon classes. The university is working with local, state, and federal law enforcement to investigate.
- Hampton University: Canceled all non-essential activities and classes through Friday.
- Alabama State University: Received what it called “terrorist threats” and shut down all campus operations.
- Clark Atlanta University: Issued a shelter-in-place order while campus police investigated. The order was lifted after the threat was cleared.
- Spelman College: Though no direct threat was reported, Spelman took precautionary measures, increasing security and temporarily asking students to stay indoors.
- Southern University and A&M College (Baton Rouge): Placed on lockdown and canceled classes through the weekend. The lockdown was lifted Thursday afternoon.
- Bethune-Cookman University (Florida): Went into lockdown and canceled all classes. Students were told to shelter in place, while faculty and staff were asked to leave campus.
Leadership Speaks Out Against Hate
Virginia State University President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah issued a powerful statement, saying these attacks are not random. They are part of a larger attempt to “disrupt, intimidate, and instill fear” in communities that have long faced systemic barriers.
“HBCUs exist because we refused to be denied an education—and we thrive because we continue to rise in the face of adversity,” Dr. Abdullah said.
He added that the best way to fight back is through persistence in education:
“Every step you take forward, every class you attend, and every degree you earn is an act of resistance and triumph.”
Abdullah also confirmed that Virginia State is working closely with law enforcement and will keep increased security in place for the safety of its students and staff.
What Is an HBCU?
According to the Higher Education Act of 1965, an HBCU is a college or university established before 1964, with the primary mission of educating Black Americans.
These institutions have played a vital role in advancing education, leadership, and opportunity within historically underserved communities.
HBCUs must also be accredited or actively working toward accreditation to qualify for federal recognition and funding.
The Community Response
Statements from several universities echoed a unified commitment to safety and resilience:
- Hampton University: “We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for learning, living, and working.”
- Spelman College: “Please remain alert, and if you see anything suspicious, report it immediately.”
- Virginia State University: “We understand this situation is unsettling, and we are committed to keeping you informed with timely and accurate updates.”
What Happens Next?
HBCUs are working closely with law enforcement to investigate the threats. Campuses are encouraging students and staff to stay alert, report anything unusual, and support each other through this difficult time.
Federal agencies are expected to assess the credibility and patterns behind these threats to determine if they are part of a coordinated hate campaign similar to previous attacks in 2022.
