The Department of Afroamerican and African Studies has become aware that several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) have recently been besieged by bomb threats, which is deeply disturbing as these actions add to the growing number of racially motivated hate crimes across this country. Although the bomb threats have not been carried out, they are triggering to many students, faculty and staff, particularly those who are aware of the legacy of such behavior throughout U.S. American history.
Since our unit is rooted in the study and advancement of the African Diaspora, we stand in support of our HBCU colleagues and condemn this egregious behavior. Let us not be frightened by such actions, but become more determined to stand in solidarity with one another to live together in peace.
"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love, 1963.
Bénédicte Boisseron
ProfessorActing Chair, Department of Afroamerican and African Studies (DAAS)
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
