WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 25: An entrance sign near the main gate at Howard University October 25, 2021 in Washington, DC. Students have complained about mold and poor conditions in some dorm rooms and over 100 students have been staging a weeks-long protest to highlight the issues. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
Roommates, fear was creeping on Tuesday throughout several campuses of historically Black colleges and universities. Media reports and a sprinkle of Twitter users have shared messages from institutions warning of threats and subsequently clearing them. According to The Washington Post, at least seven HBCUs underwent student and employee evacuations due to the threats.
The lists of threatened schools include: Howard University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Florida Memorial University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University, Prairie A&M University in Texas and Xavier University. Despite the alarming messages, there’s no reports of an actual explosion as of Wednesday morning.
Howard University issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon saying the campus was “all clear.”
“Howard’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) and MPD responded to a potential bomb threat on campus this afternoon,” Howard University officials tweeted. “The perimeter was secured and searched. No active devices were found and the area has been cleared.”
Norfolk State University also issued a similar message using the same platform as Howard.
“NSU Police Dept. completed investigation of a bomb threat received Tuesday evening and issued an “All Clear.” Students have been secured in a hotel and dorms remain closed until 8 AM Wednesday,” NSU tweeted. “NSU Police and authorities secured campus. For emergencies, call NSU at 757-823-9000.”
Texas Southern University issued a broadcast message using what seems to be a third-party app.
“Happy New Year! This is just a reminder to stay alert and remain aware of your surroudings,” TSU wrote. “Today, several HBCU’s received phone calls regarding potential threats to their campus. All threats have been unfounded. Nevertheless, please continue to be vigilant and safe on and near campus. As always, stay safe and healthy.”
At this time, there doesn’t appear to be a connection between all threats or racial motivation. Per The Washington Post, each school reportedly reached out to their communities with all-clear notices.
This is a developing story.
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