United States, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) experienced lockdowns due to specific threats. Institutions like Alabama State University and Hampton University took precautionary measures, canceling classes and urging communities to remain alert. Recent threats reflect a troubling trend as concerns grow over safety in these educational environments. Influential leaders have condemned these attacks, calling for thorough investigations into potential domestic terrorism as law enforcement probes continue.
Campus Safety Concerns Rise Across HBCUs Following Threats
In a series of alarming events on Thursday, September 11, several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States found themselves under lockdown due to specific threats made against their institutions. Campuses that were affected include notable names such as Alabama State University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, Southern University and A&M College, and Bethune-Cookman University.
A Morning of Lockdowns
The lockdowns commenced early in the morning, with each institution acting out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety of students and staff. Each university communicated directly with their communities, urging them to stay observant and remain indoors. Southern University managed to lift its lockdown later but made the decision to cancel all classes and campus activities through the weekend, prioritizing safety first.
Spelman College in Atlanta also took precautionary measures by advising everyone to avoid campus altogether in response to a threat aimed at nearby Clark Atlanta University. Initially, they implemented a shelter-in-place order but, thankfully, lifted it after assessing the situation.
Urgent Alerts and Police Involvement
Virginia State University sent out an “urgent alert” at approximately 8:30 a.m. ET, announcing that the campus would remain closed and reminded everyone to stay updated through their emails. Meanwhile, Alabama State University notified its community about having received what it described as “terrorist threats,” consequently shutting down operations to protect everyone on campus.
Hampton University, taking similar precautions, canceled classes for both September 11 and 12 and paused all non-essential activities, demonstrating its commitment to keeping the community safe.
A Broader Concern
The threats against HBCUs have drawn attention from several influential figures. Concerns have been heightened following similar incidents in recent years, where HBCUs were targeted in bomb threat situations. In 2023, a gunman was confronted at Edward Waters University, and in 2024, tragic incidents occurred on Tuskegee University’s campus where gunfire resulted in casualties.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his disgust at the attacks on HBCUs, labeling them “despicable” and emphasizing the need for thorough investigations into potential domestic terrorism. As local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies delve into investigating the threats, communities remain on high alert.
Historical Context
The recent threats are not isolated incidents; they reflect a troubling trend where HBCUs have faced numerous threats over the past years, prompting investigations by the FBI into hate crimes and violent extremism targeting these institutions. The community’s unease has been compounded by other recent events concerning campus violence, exemplified by the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a college event in Utah.
As universities work to ensure the safety of their students, faculty, and staff, it is clear that more awareness and preventive measures are needed to combat this rising tide of campus threats.
FAQ Section
- What led to the lockdowns at multiple HBCUs?
- Threats directed at their campuses prompted the lockdowns, with several institutions acting out of caution for student safety.
- Which universities were affected by the lockdowns?
- Universities affected include Alabama State University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, Southern University and A&M College, and Bethune-Cookman University.
- What measures were taken by the universities?
- Many universities canceled classes, restricted campus access, and heightened security measures to ensure safety.
- How have national leaders responded to the threats?
- Leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned the threats, calling them despicable and urging investigations into potential domestic terrorism.
- Is this a new trend for HBCUs?
- Unfortunately, no. HBCUs have faced similar threats in the past, including bomb threats and other forms of campus violence.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
- USA Today
- Google Search: HBCU security threats
- Virginia Mercury
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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