A San Francisco civil rights icon on Friday denounced the series of anonymous racist text messages sent to black students across the country.
Federal authorities are investigating text messages that targeted black students from high school through college in 10 states, including some from San Francisco.
The racist messages referenced slavery and plantations, with some mentioning President-elect Donald Trump’s victory on Tuesday.
The messages were sent from phones using area codes in 25 states.
The Rev. Amos Brown – president of the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP – spoke about the racist messages and broader issue of hate he believes is spreading in our communities.
“This is like a forest fire burning in this city and nation,” Brown said. “And it is time for people of conscience, of goodwill, of decency and civility to come together and ensure that we exorcise, that we rid this nation of this demon of division, racism and incivility.”
San Francisco Unified School also released a statement. It said:
“San Francisco is a beacon for diversity and inclusion, and we will not tolerate hate in our city. Our hearts go out to everyone who receives these messages… We will continue to work vigorously to make our schools safe, welcoming and healthy spaces where our students and staff can learn, grow and thrive together.”
Investigators say it is unclear who sent the text messages or how people’s contact information was obtained.
Anyone who receives a racist text message is asked to contact local law enforcement or their local FBI field office, which can be reached at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
