An Alabama mother has spoken out about the fear and concern Black students at the University of Alabama are experiencing after receiving racist text messages following the recent election.
The mother, Arleta McCall, shared her daughter's distressing experience. Her daughter, a freshman and Presidential Elite Scholar at the university, received a text message from an unknown number stating she had been 'selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation' and to 'be prepared to be searched down.'
Similar racist texts have been reported in various states, including Maryland, New Jersey, Alabama, Michigan, and South Carolina. Concerned individuals have reached out to state officials for further information on these incidents.
McCall expressed her daughter's fear and uncertainty, noting that her daughter has refrained from going anywhere alone since receiving the disturbing message. She questioned whether the university was the right choice for her daughter.
Following the incident, McCall contacted the university's Dean of Students, who acknowledged the situation and mentioned receiving multiple reports of similar messages circulating on campus. However, McCall expressed dissatisfaction with the university's response, stating that a 'generic email' was not sufficient.
The university has stated that they are aware of the situation and have reported it to the authorities. They are urging anyone with information to come forward. The university emphasized that these 'disgusting messages' have been received by individuals across the country.
McCall highlighted the solidarity among her daughter's friends, who have devised plans to walk together to class for safety. The university is taking steps to address the issue and ensure the safety and well-being of all students affected by these racist messages.
