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Racist Texts Target Black Americans
Racist text messages invoking slavery were sent to Black Americans across multiple states, prompting investigations by the FBI and other agencies.
English
United States
Human Rights ViolationsUs PoliticsGender IssuesInvestigationRacismHate CrimeCivil RightsThreats
FbiJustice DepartmentFederal Communications CommissionOhio Attorney General's OfficeNaacp
Tasha DunhamMegan ShaferNimrod ChapelDerrick JohnsonMargaret Huang
- What was the overall reaction to the messages?
- The messages caused widespread alarm and fear, particularly given their timing after the recent presidential election. Parents, students, and civil rights organizations expressed deep concern over the disturbing and threatening nature of the texts.
- Which agencies are investigating the messages?
- The FBI, FCC, and several state attorney generals' offices are investigating these messages, which varied in wording but generally instructed recipients to report to a location with their belongings.
- What is known about the origin of the messages?
- While the origin of the messages remains unclear, initial reports suggest the involvement of bots or malicious actors. Wireless providers are actively working to block the messages and implicated numbers.
- What type of messages caused alarm across the country?
- Racist text messages referencing slavery were sent to Black individuals across multiple states, including students in middle and high schools and universities.
- What legal and social implications have arisen from these incidents?
- The incidents have prompted condemnation from civil rights leaders and legal experts who pointed out that a number of civil rights laws can be applied to such hate-related incidents. Investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators and hold them accountable.