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IU student reports racist text as FBI investigates similar reports nationwide

By Aubrey Wright

Posted November 8, 2024

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On Nov. 6, the Indiana University Police Department took a report of harassment from a student who received a racist text message. (WFIU/WTIU News)

An unnamed Indiana University student reported receiving a racist text referencing slavery, matching similar reports around the country.

The Indiana University Police Department took a report from the student on Wednesday, said Mary Keck, IU Public Safety communications manager. The student said others received similar text messages. Keck said further questions should be directed to the FBI.

The text message stated the student was selected to pick cotton at a plantation, according to Fox 59, which reported a photo of the text message.

“Our Executive Slaves will come get you in a White Dodge Van,” the text said.

USA Today reported that Black people in Georgia, Michigan, Virginia, Ohio, Alabama, North Carolina and South Carolina have received racist texts before or after Election Day.

Screenshots shared by parent groups and several Facebook users Wednesday show unknown phone numbers referencing students by name and telling them they have been “selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation.”

More https://t.co/JO8xeQt85S pic.twitter.com/EbqrOnhg5z
— AL.com (@aldotcom) November 7, 2024

The FBI said a release Thursday it is aware of the text messages sent to people around the country and is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities.

"As always, we encourage members of the public to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement authorities," the FBI said.

Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson issued a statement Friday morning. She said the City of Bloomington "unequivocally condemns all acts of hatred and hate speech." She said those who feel threatened should reach out to local law enforcement and the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or visit FBI.gov/tips.

MCCSC Superintendent Markay Winston said in a Friday morning message to the community the corporation's primary concern is to ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment for students. Winston said teachers are required to maintain a neutral stance when discussing politics, but MCCSC requests that teachers and staff "take extra care during this time to support students’ social-emotional wellbeing."

WFIU/WTIU News reached out to local Black organizations but did not immediately receive a response.

Anyone with information to submit can go to fbi.gov.

This story has been updated to include a statement from the FBI, Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson and MCCSC Superintendent Markay Winston. National coverage courtesy of NPR's Morning Edition.

Aubrey is our higher education reporter and a Report For America corps member. Contact her at aubmwrig@iu.edu or follow her on X @aubreymwright.