Just hours after Donald Trump won the election, Black individuals in the US reported receiving racist text messages. The messages told them they had been “selected” to pick cotton and needed to report to “the nearest plantation”. Some of the messages were signed “a Trump supporter” and referred to the recipients by name. While the president-elect’s spokesperson stated that the campaign had nothing to do with these messages, it is unclear who is behind them and the full extent of the recipients.
Black people in various states, including Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, New York, New Jersey, Nevada, the DC area, and more, reported receiving these hateful messages. They were sent to adults, students, including high schoolers and those at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Alabama State University, Ohio schools, Clemson University, the University of Alabama, and Missouri State. Shockingly, even middle school students in Pennsylvania received these messages.
Authorities like the FBI and attorneys general are currently investigating the messages. The FBI released a statement on Thursday acknowledging the offensive content of the messages and their ongoing collaboration with federal authorities on the matter. The NAACP also spoke out against the messages, condemning the increase in racist rhetoric from groups across the country following the election. The organization emphasized that hate has no place in a democracy and expressed deep concerns over the mention of slavery in 2024.
In response to these incidents, Brian Hughes from the Trump campaign stated that they would pursue legal action if the origin of such messages promoting hate in the president’s name is found. He highlighted the diverse coalition of support that Trump built during the election and emphasized the positive changes that the president’s second term would bring for all working individuals in the nation.
These messages are a stark reminder of the deep-rooted racism that still exists in our society. They serve as a call to action for individuals and communities to stand together against hate and discrimination. It is crucial for all Americans to promote unity, respect, and equality, regardless of political beliefs. Only by working together can we create a more inclusive and tolerant society for future generations.
