Lockdowns Lifted at Several HBCUs Following Threats
Reports indicate that several historically black universities (HBCUs) have lifted lockdowns that were initiated in response to alleged threats against their campuses.
Minami University announced on X that they have ended their lockdown. Other institutions like Alabama State University and Virginia State University have also lifted their restrictions, although Alabama State urged students to continue evacuating, as noted by NBC News. Additionally, Clark Atlanta University and Spelman College concluded their state of shelter-in-place orders, according to reports from WSB-TV.
On Thursday, Virginia State University, Alabama State University, Hampton University, Southern University, and Clark Atlanta University all declared lockdowns following received threats. ABC News reported that Spelman College adopted a sheltered protocol as well. Minami University also announced a lockdown, recommending that students find safe areas in the wake of these threats.
Meanwhile, Hampton University issued a statement indicating that all “non-essential activities” would be suspended Thursday and Friday due to a potential threat. They highlighted that their campus had been under scrutiny “from a wealth of attention.”
Although specific details regarding the alleged threat were not provided by Virginia officials, they mentioned that campus police, alongside local, state, and federal law enforcement, are examining the situation’s credibility, as cited in an email obtained by ABC News.
Alabama State University canceled classes on Thursday, confirming that officials acknowledged a “terrorist threat.” WSFA 12 reported that students were advised to evacuate while campus police secured all buildings. An official comment mentioned that an “all clear” was given before 1 PM.
Clark Atlanta University also put shelter orders in place as campus police collaborated with the Atlanta Police Department to investigate the situation, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.
In light of these events, Rev. Al Sharpton, host of MSNBC, addressed the threats made against HBCUs. He noted the rising violence on campuses, linking it to recent incidents, including the murder of Charlie Kirk, who was shot during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University on Wednesday.
