Colleges at two Historically Black Universities in Virginia have ended restrictions following the cancellation of classes due to threats they received.
In a series of events that have sent shockwaves through the academic community, Virginia State University (VSU) and Hampton University found themselves under lockdown on Thursday. The lockdowns were a response to ongoing hate-filled extremist threats targeting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the US, with domestic criminal and extremist groups cited as general sources of danger.
President Darrell K. Williams of Hampton University emphasized the safety and security of the student body, faculty, staff, and campus community, sharing a video statement on social media. His counterpart at VSU, President Makolla Abdullah, also wrote a letter to the school community, stating that these threats are targeted attacks on institutions that have long stood as pillars of excellence, empowerment, and progress.
The lockdown at VSU has since been lifted, but most restrictions remain in place. Extra security is still on campus, monitoring not only the main campus but also VSU-run off-campus housing. VSU students will continue to have their afternoon classes and extracurricular activities cancelled.
Hampton University students will not attend classes on Friday, but most operations will return to normal. The initial cancellation of all campus activities and classes for Thursday and Friday was due to a perceived threat, but the FBI found no credible threat, and most restrictions have since been lifted.
Both universities are working closely with law enforcement to investigate the threats. Anyone with information about the threats at VSU can contact police at (804) 524-5411. For Hampton University, information can be reported to police at 757-727-5300.
It's important to note that a separate incident involving a Virginia physical therapist being arrested in connection to sexual assault of a patient was mentioned but is not directly related to the lockdowns at Hampton University or Virginia State University.
An unrelated incident occurred in a DC home where over 100 shell casings were found after shots were fired while residents slept. This incident does not appear to be directly related to the lockdown at VSU.
As the investigations continue, both universities remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of their communities. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by HBCUs, but also of the resilience and strength of these institutions and their communities.
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