[SEPT 12] - Washington, DC – Community Justice stands in solidarity with all Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the students, faculty, and staff who are being terrorized by a recent wave of threats targeting their campuses. 

Reports of threats, lockdowns, class cancellations, and heightened security at Virginia State University, Hampton University, Alabama State University, Southern University, Bethune-Cookman University, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, and others are deeply disturbing.

“These threats are not mere disruptions. They are assaults on the safety and dignity of Black and Brown people and their right to learn and teach without fear. Racist and violent threats, especially when directed at safe spaces, leave lasting trauma for the entire community. We refuse to accept the normalization of hateful rhetoric or violence targeting communities of color," said José Alfaro, Executive Director of Community Justice. 

Institutions of higher learning—especially those carrying the legacy and mission of HBCUs—should never have to operate under the shadow of hate or violence.

Community Justice reaffirms its commitment to ending gun violence and all forms of violence, including the weaponization of fear. We stand with HBCUs—not just in words, but in action—and will continue to work to ensure these institutions never have to question their right to education, safety, and peace.

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Community Justice is a non-partisan project of Tides Center and builds power for communities of color to end gun violence.