NAACP President Condemns Racist Text Messages Sent to Black Americans Across the Country

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - In multiple states, including Alabama, North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, Black women, men, and students have reported receiving racist text messages from an unknown source, urging them to report to a plantation to pick cotton.

NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson shared the following statement on the news of hateful, and racist text messages sent to individuals across the country:

"The unfortunate reality of electing a President who, historically has embraced, and at times encouraged hate, is unfolding before our eyes. These messages represent an alarming increase in vile and abhorrent rhetoric from racist groups across the country, who now feel emboldened to spread hate and stoke the flames of fear that many of us are feeling after Tuesday's election results.

We've said it before and we'll say it again - there is no place for hate in a democracy. The threat - and the mention of slavery in 2024 - is not only deeply disturbing, but perpetuates a legacy of evil that dates back to before the Jim Crow era, and now seeks to prevent Black Americans from enjoying the same freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.

These actions are not normal. And we refuse to let them be normalized. The NAACP was founded in the spirit of liberation and progress, bringing otherized communities together to fight for a brighter tomorrow. That spirit lives on as we continue to fight for the safety, security, and prosperity of all people. Freedom is on the horizon, and we won't be fear mongered out of the future we deserve."

In addition to the text messages, reports are circulating in states like North Carolina and Georgia, of planned attacks against Black Americans "from now until November."

The NAACP has taken action to alert and urge the FBI and local law enforcement to take these messages seriously and respond appropriately. The Association continues to monitor and coordinate with our communities on the ground. If you have, or are experiencing hateful acts, please do not hesitate to contact our Constituent Services department.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.