Introduction:
In the wake of the recent death of prominent conservative commentator and activist Charlie Kirk, colleges and universities nationwide saw an increase in new threats. This resulted in heightened security measures, cancellations of classes and events, and rising concerns among students and faculty about their safety.
Body:
In Virginia, Hampton University and Virginia State University, both well-known historically Black colleges, were among those targeted by the wave of threats. Hampton University announced on Sept. 11 via Facebook that it had “ceased all non-essential activity, effective immediately.” The university canceled all classes, events, and athletic activities through Friday, Sept. 12, and urged students to remain indoors and minimize movement. “The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remain our highest priority,” the statement said, adding that enhanced security measures and coordination with law enforcement were underway.
VSU President Makola M. Abdullah responded to the threat in a letter to the university, calling it a “targeted attack on institutions that have long stood as pillars of excellence, empowerment, and progress.” The university initiated a temporary lockdown before resuming limited activity. “The greatest revenge is to get an education,” Abdullah wrote. “Every step you take forward, every class you attend, and every degree you earn is an act of resistance and triumph.”
Norfolk State University, while not directly threatened, posted on Facebook that it was closely monitoring the situation and had mobilized state police resources to bolster campus security. “If you see something, say something,” the statement urged, encouraging students to download the NSU Safe App and stay alert.
National Response:
On their official website, the Congressional Black Caucus issued a statement condemning the threats as “vile” and “a chilling reminder of the relentless racism and extremism that continues to target and terrorize Black communities.” CBC Chair Yvette D. Clarke called on the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI to “act swiftly to fully investigate these threats and pursue the appropriate legal action against those responsible.” The statement also pledged the CBC’s “full solidarity with the students, faculty, and staff of historically Black colleges and universities” and its commitment to ensuring their safety.
According to a statement made to WAVY, the FBI later characterized these threats as “hoax threats” and said federal and state agencies are still working to identify those responsible.
