At a time of Black History Month celebration, NASW Virginia is appalled to learn of dozens of bomb threats to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia, DC, and across the country.

We stand in solidarity with these vital higher education institutions and strongly oppose efforts by anyone to disrupt or demean the important role of HBCUs in advancing the futures of America's students, regardless of race or ethnicity. Violence and threats have no place in the nation's ongoing discussions and reckoning with its prejudiced past. Fear and violence do not create a successful path forward. Social workers of Virginia stand ready to help anyone who needs extra support for their mental and behavioral health.