117th CONGRESS 2d Session |
Condemning threats of violence against historically Black colleges and universities (“HBCUs”) and reaffirming support for HBCUs and their students.
February 7, 2022
Ms. Adams (for herself and Mr. Hill) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and Labor
Condemning threats of violence against historically Black colleges and universities (“HBCUs”) and reaffirming support for HBCUs and their students.
Whereas the Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the bomb threats made in January and February 2022 against HBCUs as racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism and hate crimes;
Whereas a high-quality education is central to economic prosperity and social well-being in the United States;
Whereas HBCUs provide educational and economic opportunities for postsecondary students;
Whereas these institutions educate and produce a significant share of the Nation’s Black leaders and innovators;
Whereas as early as the 19th century, HBCUs were established in response to discriminatory practices that excluded Black Americans from pursuing an education in the United States;
Whereas, on January 5, 2022, at least 8 HBCUs received bomb threats, including Howard University, Xavier University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Prairie View A&M University, North Carolina Central University, Florida Memorial University, Norfolk State University, and Spelman College;
Whereas, on January 31, 2022, at least 6 HBCUs received bomb threats, including Southern University and A&M, Howard University, Bethune-Cookman University, Albany State University, Bowie State University, and Delaware State University;
Whereas, on February 1, 2022, the first day of Black History Month, at least 18 HBCUs received bomb threats, including Shorter College, Philander Smith College, Arkansas Baptist College, the University of the District of Columbia, Howard University, Edward Waters University, Spelman College, Fort Valley State University, Kentucky State University, Xavier University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, Jackson State University, Alcorn State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Rust College, Tougaloo College, and Harris-Stowe State University;
Whereas HBCUs provide an environment of belonging, safety, and security for Black students, faculty, and administrators; and
Whereas these threats against HBCUs disrupt campus environments, obstruct educational opportunities, increase anxiety, and instill fear: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring),
(1) condemns violence and the threat of violence against HBCUs, including bomb threats made against several HBCUs on January 5, 2022, January 31, 2022, and February 1, 2022;
(2) recognizes Black History Month and honors the legacy of HBCUs; and
(3) reaffirms the commitment of the United States Federal Government to combat violence against HBCU students, faculty, and staff.