WASHINGTON — Today, the League of Women Voters issued the following statement:

"The League of Women Voters condemns the recent threats made against Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which forced campuses into lockdown and spread fear among students, faculty, and staff. Schools and universities must always be safe spaces where young people can learn, thrive, and build their futures without the threat of violence or intimidation. 

"These threats against HBCUs are part of a troubling pattern of violence targeting our nation’s educational institutions and communities of color. Just yesterday, a school shooting in Colorado injured students, and public figure Charlie Kirk was assassinated at a university in Utah — both shaking the nation to its core. From elementary schools to universities, our campuses and Black communities continue to be targeted by acts of violence and terror that undermine safety, security, and trust. 

"The League stands in solidarity with HBCUs and all educational communities impacted by threats and violence. We call on leaders at every level to take urgent action to protect students and educators, work to combat gun violence, and to confront the racism and hate that fuel attacks on historically Black institutions. 

"Now is the time for our elected leaders to enact solutions that protect our students and educational institutions, including by passing comprehensive gun safety reform. The League of Women Voters calls on Congress to act now and move gun safety reform legislation. We must protect the next generations and threatened communities. Everyone deserves the freedom to live with safety and opportunity."

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