Local NAACP Chapters Condemn Racists Texts Sent to Black Students

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Black leaders in West Alabama were unified in condemning racist texts which were apparently widely distributed to young people of color both locally and across the United States Wednesday.

As the Thread first reported, what first seemed like a disgusting message sent to one University of Alabama student referencing an assignment for slave work on a nearby plantation was just one of many almost identical texts sent to young Black people Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the University condemned the racist messages Wednesday night but told the Thread that early investigations indicated this was a "nationwide" issue.

On Friday, CNN reported that Black children, high school and college students, and working professionals in at least 20 states received some variation of the venomous message.

While no one has been able to say where these texts originated or how they were sent to so many African Americans at once, both the Tuscaloosa Chapter and the University of Alabama Chapter of the NAACP issued statements condemning this behavior and demanding answers.

"We strongly condemn the recently reported racist messages sent to African American students at The University of Alabama and other college campuses across the country," said Lisa Young and Jakobe Bibbs, the Presidents of the Tuscaloosa and UA chapters respectively. "Such hateful actions have no place on any campus and stand in direct opposition to the values of inclusivity, respect, and community that we value.

"The University of Alabama Chapter of the NAACP, in collaboration with the local Tuscaloosa County Branch NAACP, takes this matter seriously, and we have addressed the issue with university officials. Our students deserve a safe and welcoming environment in which to pursue their education free from fear and discrimination. We call on the university's administration to conduct a thorough investigation and to hold those responsible accountable. We also urge the University of Alabama to strengthen its commitment to ensuring that every student feels valued, protected, and supported.

"The University of Alabama's Chapter and local branch of the NAACP commend the brave students who have come forward and shared their experiences," they continued. "We stand in solidarity with all students impacted by this cowardly act of hatred and will continue to offer our support and advocate for justice and meaningful change. We are committed to challenging hate and promoting a campus culture of respect and unity."

For more on this developing situation if any new information is released, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.

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Gallery Credit: (Stephen Dethrage | Tuscaloosa Thread)

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