nbcnews.com
Racist Text Messages Target Black Americans
Threatening text messages targeting Black people sparked outrage and prompted investigations.
English
United States
Human Rights ViolationsUs PoliticsGender IssuesRacismSocial JusticeHate CrimesOnline HarassmentPolitical Climate
FbiDepartment Of JusticeTextnowNaacpCtia
Monèt MillerDomonique VallesDonald TrumpBrian HughesCorryn Freeman
- What did the messages say?
- The messages, which appear to originate from spoofed numbers linked to TextNow, caused fear and concern among recipients, many of whom are college students.
- Who received the threatening text messages?
- Dozens of Black people across the U.S. received threatening text messages telling them they were 'selected' to pick cotton at a plantation, shortly after the presidential election.
- What is the suspected motive behind the messages?
- While the motive behind the messages is unclear, some believe they are racially motivated and potentially linked to post-election tensions.
- What are the broader implications of this incident?
- The incident highlights the ongoing issue of racism and online harassment, with concerns raised about the potential for further attacks.
- What actions are being taken in response to the messages?
- The FBI, Department of Justice, and other law enforcement agencies are investigating the incidents, while TextNow has shut down the accounts involved.