FBI Investigates Nationwide Racist Text Messages

Following the 2024 presidential election, racist text messages invoking slavery have been sent to Black individuals and students across various states, including Texas, Georgia, and California, alarming recipients and prompting investigations by the FBI and other agencies. These anonymous messages, some of which claimed recipients were 'chosen' to pick cotton at a plantation, have been confirmed as real, with reports of similar incidents in at least ten states. The FBI is coordinating with the Justice Department and state law enforcement to trace the origins of these texts, which have been condemned by civil rights leaders as hate-fueled. Recipients included middle school students and college attendees, stirring fear and confusion among families. In some cases, messages contained specific details, such as directing individuals to a fictional plantation or a museum, further aggravating concerns. Authorities are urging anyone who receives such messages to report them immediately to law enforcement.