Lockdown Orders and Class Cancellations at Historically Black Colleges Following Threats

In response to a wave of threats targeting historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the United States, several institutions implemented lockdown measures and canceled classes. The incidents occurred on Thursday, prompting heightened security protocols at these educational establishments.

The specific nature of the threats has not been disclosed, and as of now, no injuries have been reported. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently investigating the incidents, categorizing the threats as "hoax threat calls" while affirming that there is no credible evidence suggesting an imminent danger.

Although lockdowns have been lifted, many schools are exercising caution. This decision comes amid a backdrop of increased anxiety related to gun violence in educational settings, especially following a recent spate of violent incidents and hoax calls regarding active shooters at various campuses.

U.S. Representative Troy Carter, a Democrat from Louisiana, condemned the threats as "reprehensible attacks," asserting that any aggression targeted at HBCUs is an affront to the entire community.

Following the threats, Southern University in Louisiana experienced a brief lockdown due to a reported potential risk to campus safety. Meanwhile, Alabama State University also instructed its approximately 3,500 students to shelter in place as law enforcement conducted thorough searches of campus buildings. After approximately two hours, the university confirmed that the situation was secure but advised students to remain in their dormitories while classes were canceled for the remainder of the day.

Other HBCUs such as Clark Atlanta University, Virginia State University, Hampton University, and Bethune-Cookman University also reported receiving similar threats. In light of these events, many institutions that did not directly receive threats have also opted to enhance their security measures. South Carolina State University, for instance, has mandated that anyone entering campus must show a photo ID.

Spelman College in Atlanta, which is located near a university that faced threats, took precautionary steps by issuing a lockdown and bolstering security protocols.

At the beginning of the academic year, numerous college campuses had fallen victim to hoax calls concerning active shooters, with some calls featuring realistic audio that included gunfire. This has led to universities adopting lockdown procedures and advising students to follow protocols of "run, hide, fight."