In an alarming series of events, several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were placed on lockdown within 24-hours following what officials described as “terroristic threats” in the aftermath of the Charlie Kirk assassination.
Authorities did not elaborate on the type of threats that were made and no injuries have been reported. The FBI told The Associated Press that they are taking the “hoax threat calls“ seriously. They also stated that there is “no information to indicate a credible threat.”
The threats, which occurred on September 11, 2025, came just one day after the fatal shooting of the conservative commentator at a Utah university, raising questions about a potential connection.
The Threats and Campus Response
At least five HBCUs—including Virginia State University, Hampton University, Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, and Southern University—received threats that prompted immediate campus-wide lockdowns and the cancellation of classes.
The nature of the threats varied, with some institutions receiving “hoax threat calls,” while others reportedly received threatening letters containing racist language and references to a recent, unrelated murder case.
The rapid response from university and law enforcement officials underscored the gravity of the situation. At Virginia State University, an “urgent alert” was issued. It directed all students and staff to remain in place and away from campus.
Hampton University suspended all non-essential activities and classes for two days, and Alabama State University shut down campus operations entirely. These swift actions were taken out of an “abundance of caution” to ensure the safety of the campus communities.
CBC Condemns Threats Against HBCUs, Demands Swift Federal Action
Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement:
The threats made against several Historically Black Colleges and Universities are not only vile—they are a chilling reminder of the relentless racism and extremism that continues to target and terrorize Black communities in this country.
These terroristic threats, designed to intimidate and foment hatred against everyday Americans—in this case, Black institutions of higher learning—cannot go unchallenged and must not be swept aside. Black students and HBCU communities deserve to be protected.
The Congressional Black Caucus stands in full solidarity with the students, faculty, and staff of HBCUs around our nation, and we remain committed to ensuring their safety and security.
The U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI must act swiftly to fully investigate these threats and pursue the appropriate legal action against those responsible.
Congressional Black Caucus 2025 Statement of HBCUs being threatened after the assassination of Charlie Kirk
A Troubling Pattern
These threats are not isolated incidents but rather the latest in a troubling pattern of violence and intimidation targeting HBCUs.
In early 2022, dozens of these institutions across the country were hit with a wave of bomb threats. The FBI would later investigate them as potential hate crimes.
While no actual explosive devices were found in those cases, the psychological and logistical disruption was significant. These repeated threats, coupled with other acts of violence on or near HBCU campuses, have created a pervasive sense of fear and unease.
HBCUs were founded to give Black students a place of refuge and respect
The targeting of these schools is particularly poignant given their historical role. Founded during a time when Black Americans were largely denied access to higher education, HBCUs have long stood as vital pillars of excellence, empowerment, and progress.
As Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, President of Virginia State University, stated, these threats are “targeted attacks on institutions that have long stood as beacons of knowledge…we will not be intimidated.”
U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, a Louisiana Democrat, called the threats “reprehensible attacks.” He also said that any threat made against HBCUs is “a threat against us all.”
The Shadow of Charlie Kirk’s Death
The timing of these threats has drawn widespread attention and fueled speculation.
While authorities have not officially confirmed any direct link between Kirk’s death and the threats to HBCUs, the proximity of the two events has rattled campuses nationwide.
Civil rights leaders, including Rev. Al Sharpton, have publicly condemned both the murder of Kirk and the threats against HBCUs. Sharpton has called for an end to all forms of political violence.
The events serve as a stark reminder of the escalating tensions and polarization in American society. They highlight the vulnerability of educational institutions, and particularly HBCUs, to threats of violence and the ongoing struggle to ensure they remain safe havens for learning and free expression.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on protecting the students and faculty who call these historic institutions home.
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