America has faced a surge in hate crimes over recent years, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) have been among the threatened, with at least 57 bomb threats made this year alone – and now, the HBCU Caucus in Congress is urging federal action.
In a letter to Department of Justice (DOJ) Attorney General Merrick Garland and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray, bipartisan members of the caucus pushed for more information on the ongoing bomb threats, as well as guidance detailing resources these schools have available for protection against such threats.
“Notably, Howard University has received eight bomb threats, including two recently within the same week. Bomb threats should not be a normal part of the campus experience. Many students may become, or have become, desensitized to these threats of violence directed toward themselves and campus communities…” the caucus co-chairs wrote. “We are concerned that the ongoing nature of these threats may embolden others who wish to do these schools, and their students, harm. We look forward to continuing to work with you to ensure institutions receive timely and relevant communications to ensure school leaders and law-enforcement officials have all they need to keep safe as you work expeditiously to identify those responsible.”
Members involved in the letter included U.S. Sens. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Chris Coons (D-DL), as well as U.S. Reps. French Hill (R-AK) and Alma Adams (D-NC), all co-chairs of the HBCU Caucus. These co-chairs asked for information on funding streams, training opportunities for HBCU staff and resources for development of standard operating procedures to strengthen campus security, as well as instructions for small institutions for how to receive technical assistance on affiliated applications. They further requested regular meetings with DOJ officials, to exchange updates, feedback and concerns.