The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to urgently look into a series of threats directed at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the United States. The calls for investigation come in the wake of alarming threats that prompted several institutions to cancel classes and enhance security measures.

“These 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,” stated Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), chair of the caucus, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

The threats affected at least six HBCUs, including notable institutions such as Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University. These schools took decisive actions on Thursday, canceling classes, locking down campuses, and advising students and staff to shelter in place to ensure safety.

Hampton University explicitly stated, “The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remain our highest priority,” as they announced class cancellations for consecutive days.

In a precautionary response, Howard University in Washington, which did not receive direct threats, also locked down its campus, reflecting the widespread anxiety and caution triggered by the threats.

The timing of these threats is particularly concerning, occurring amidst other national violent incidents. Just a day before, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at an event in Utah, and a separate incident in Colorado left two students injured and the suspected gunman dead at a high school.

Despite the FBI labeling these threats as hoaxes, the agency has taken a firm stance on the severity of the situation. “We take these threats very seriously because it puts innocent people at risk,” an FBI spokesperson remarked. The agency continues to collaborate with various law enforcement partners to monitor and respond to any emergent threats, urging the public to stay vigilant.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other Black lawmakers have also spoken out, condemning the threats as “despicable” and expressing solidarity with the affected communities.

The CBC remains resolute in its demand for justice, advocating for legal actions against those responsible for the threats. “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,” Clarke concluded, underscoring the need for protection and justice for Black students and the broader HBCU communities.