Over the past several months, a sharp rise in violent incidents has been reported on the campuses of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) throughout the country. These attacks, which have included shootings and threats, have led to widespread concern among students, administrators, and experts. The majority of these incidents have occurred during homecoming events, adding a layer of fear and anxiety to what are typically celebratory occasions.
In recent weeks, multiple shootings have rocked HBCU campuses, prompting authorities to investigate the perpetrators and the motives behind the attacks. For example, on October 24, gunshots were fired near Howard University in Washington, D.C., during its annual homecoming event. Although none of the victims were students, one individual was reportedly enrolled at Maryland’s Morgan State University. Police arrested two 19-year-old suspects and recovered three guns in connection with the shooting, according to FOX 5. However, authorities have since stated that more individuals may have been involved in the incident.
Similar incidents have also been reported at other HBCUs, including Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, where one person was killed and six were injured by gunfire. Another shooting occurred at South Carolina State University, where a visitor was killed and another attendee was injured. These attacks have prompted officials to intensify their security measures, with multiple campuses implementing new safety protocols, such as installing more cameras and hiring additional police officers.
Experts have pointed to the growing threat of individuals who are not affiliated with the institutions but are attending events on HBCU campuses, often with the intent of causing chaos.