Lockdowns at HBCUs: The Unwanted Reality of “Stay in Your Dorm” Drills

Picture this: you’re attending lectures or grabbing a quick meal on campus—let’s be honest, sometimes that classic college fuel—and suddenly, a lockdown alarm blares. Not your typical quiet study hall scenario, but urgent, emergency lockdown procedures unfold. In early September 2025, at least seven HBCUs, including Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Clark Atlanta University, were forced into lockdown following a series of what authorities have termed “hoax calls.” These schools swung into high alert, implementing shelter-in-place orders, canceling events, and activating full security protocols.

The harrowing reality? Whether the threats were hoaxes or legitimate, they halted the pulse of campus life and cast a pall over students’ futures. Federal agencies like the FBI and local law enforcement rapidly mobilized to identify and apprehend those responsible for these intimidation tactics. School safety, a fundamental right, has suddenly become a fragile assurance at these institutions.

A Disturbing Pattern: Threats Against HBCUs Are Not New

If you find yourself wondering, “Are these recent threats unprecedented?” the answer is, sadly, no. History tells a troubling story. From bomb threats targeting HBCUs in 2022, to shootings around Edward Waters University in 2023, and another alarming incident at Tuskegee University in 2024, these schools have repeatedly been targeted. One would hope progress would diminish such dangers, yet these persistent threats expose ongoing racial intimidation that refuses to fade.

Why are HBCUs such focal points? Because they represent far more than classrooms and diplomas; they embody Black resilience, culture, empowerment, and pride. Their significance makes them unfortunately vulnerable to acts rooted in racial hostility.

The Emotional Toll: Beyond Locked Doors and Alarms

Let’s be honest—the impact is far deeper than the physical lockdown. It’s about the anxiety that grips students during these events, the sleepless nights spent worrying, the frantic communications with loved ones, and the intense fear carried by families clamoring for reassurance that their children are safe. HBCUs are sanctuaries where Black students embrace their full identities without compromise.

The mental and emotional burdens imposed by these threats weigh heavily on students and families alike. Psychological distress disrupts not only academic achievement but also the peace of mind vital for growth and healing. What families crave isn’t just alarms and security measures; it’s a sacred promise that their children’s aspirations will remain unharmed and protected.

Political Voices Unite: Congressional Black Caucus, NAACP LDF, and Community Leaders Respond

The response to these alarming events has been loud and unequivocal. The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), spearheaded by representatives such as Rep. Troy A. Carter, has openly condemned these threats as direct assaults on Black history, culture, and educational empowerment. They have called on the FBI and Department of Justice to investigate swiftly and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Similarly, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund has warned decisively against dismissing these threats as mere “hoaxes.” To ignore or downplay such incidents is to overlook the deep-seated violence—both overt and systemic—faced by Black communities.

Campus leaders and civic advocates have echoed the urgent need for authentic solutions: well-funded and effective campus security, accessible and culturally competent mental health resources, and truly safe environments where students can thrive.

The FBI’s Approach: Hoax Calls are No Hoax on Safety

While the FBI has officially categorized these threats as hoax calls, the seriousness with which law enforcement treats them cannot be understated. Regardless of intent, every threat triggers heightened patrols, increased surveillance, and determined efforts to stop those who seek to terrorize these vital institutions.

This unified, “all hands on deck” approach signals a cautious optimism—that governmental agencies recognize the crucial duty of safeguarding spaces that nurture Black intellectual brilliance and leadership.

Moving Forward: Strategies to Protect HBCUs

It’s time for concrete action, not just words or sentiments. Protecting HBCUs requires multi-faceted strategies:

• Enhanced Federal Protections: Increased funding dedicated to hate-crime prevention and campus security at HBCUs is essential. These historically vital institutions must no longer rely on emergency hotline calls but have proactive, sustained support.
• Holistic Campus Security: Technological measures like cameras are important; however, equally critical is broad access to mental health services tailored to Black students’ needs. True safety encompasses both physical and emotional well-being.
• Public Education and Awareness: Society must recognize HBCUs for what they truly are—cultural powerhouses and pillars of Black community life, not merely “old schools.” Elevating their profile helps foster respect and protection.
• Accountability and Justice: Identifying and prosecuting those responsible for these intimidation tactics is non-negotiable. Holding offenders accountable is a vital deterrent ensuring future safety.

Empowering Black Families: Turning Anxiety into Action

For families navigating this turbulent landscape, your concerns are valid and necessary. Here’s how to transform worry into proactive empowerment:

• Stay Informed: Subscribe to campus alerts, understand safety protocols, and maintain open lines of communication with your students.
• Communicate Openly: Validate fears and frustrations, then nurture resilience by encouraging your loved ones to channel emotions constructively.
• Advocate Actively: Engage with school boards, participate in policy discussions, and urge lawmakers to prioritize and fund safety initiatives for HBCUs.
• Support Mental Health: Encourage students to utilize counseling services and peer groups. Emotional care is indispensable and a cornerstone of survival.

In Conclusion: This Is the Moment to Defend Our Legacy and Future

Threats to historically Black colleges and universities are more than momentary disruptions; they are calls to collective action, resilience, and unwavering vigilance. These institutions have shepherded Black communities through generations of struggle and triumph, earning their place as invaluable treasures that must be vigorously protected and celebrated.

As law enforcement pursues justice and leaders campaign for stronger protections, you—the family members, community advocates, and allies—stand on the frontlines. Because securing HBCUs means securing futures. Secure futures mean thriving Black lives. And thriving Black lives are the true headline we all must champion.

Stay informed, voice your support loudly, and nurture those campuses with pride and passion. Black education is not just history—it is the foundation of our tomorrow.

—

If you’ve read this far, you’re officially a champion of this cause. Now go forth and share this knowledge as if it were a legendary mixtape dropped at the family cookout—spread it wide, spread it proud.