Alarming Text Messages Linked to Slavery Sent to Black Recipients Across the U.S.
In several cities across the United States, a wave of unsettling text messages has been reported, specifically targeting Black recipients. The messages, which seem to resonate with undertones of racism, have sparked outrage and fear among communities following the recent presidential election.
Reports from Multiple States
More than a dozen states, including California, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, North Carolina, Virginia, and Alabama, have witnessed reports of these disturbing texts. The messages often contain a similar script instructing recipients that they have been “selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation,” raising serious concerns about the intentions behind these communications.
Some of the messages even included references to being a “Trump supporter” or used the hashtag “#MAGA,” hinting at a possible political motive behind this alarming outreach.
Community Reactions
Frances Carmona, a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan, shared her feelings of shock and fear after her 15-year-old niece received one of these messages. The text indicated that she should be “ready to be searched and patted down once inside of the plantation.” Carmona expressed her distress to local media, saying, “Upset is an understatement. I don’t know what’s happening. I knew things were going to happen after the election, but not the day after. It is kind of scary. It’s frightening.”
Investigations Underway
The FBI announced their awareness of these messages and stated they were in contact with various federal and state authorities. In their statement, they urged anyone receiving such messages that suggest threats of physical violence to report it to local law enforcement. Likewise, the Federal Communications Commission has begun its investigation into these troubling texts.
Several state Attorneys General have also taken notice and confirmed they are looking into the issue. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown condemned the messages, labeling them “horrific, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated.” He urged anyone affected to report the texts, reinforcing his commitment to the rights of Maryland residents, stating, “There is no home for hate in Maryland.”
Condemnations from Civil Rights Organizations
In light of these events, the NAACP has spoken out against the messages. NAACP president Derrick Johnson remarked on the seriousness of the situation, saying, “The threat – and the mention of slavery in 2024 – is not only deeply disturbing, but perpetuates a legacy of evil.” He emphasized the importance of not normalizing acts of racism.
Similarly, the Southern Poverty Law Center called the messages a “public spectacle of hatred and racism,” highlighting the need for leaders at all levels to denounce such actions and promote racial justice. Margaret Huang, SPLC president, noted that we must strive to create an inclusive atmosphere for all individuals.
A Growing Concern
Data from the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University San Bernardino revealed that about one-fifth of hate crimes reported in major U.S. cities in 2022 targeted Black individuals. The recent text message incidents further highlight an ongoing challenge regarding hate and racism in America.
The alarming text messages serve as a harsh reminder of the persistent issues of racism and hate that affect many communities, and they underscore the need for vigilance and support from both authorities and fellow citizens.
