Racist text messages sent across the US are under investigation by authorities: 'Unacceptable'
Rewritten headline: "School-aged children and college students: How to stay organized and manage your time effectively"
This week, cellphone numbers nationwide received offensive text messages that are being investigated by federal authorities.
The text messages used plantation imagery and informed the recipients, including school-aged children and college students, that a van would transport them to a plantation. The messages seem to have been mostly sent to Black individuals, and it is unclear how the phone numbers were obtained or if non-Black recipients were also contacted.
One individual informed NBC4 Washington that they received a message stating they were "chosen to harvest cotton."
You have been chosen to pick cotton at the nearby plantation. Make sure to be ready at 12PM sharp with your belongings.
"You will be picked up in a Black Van by our Executive Slaves and searched upon entering the plantation. You are part of Plantation Group S."
Pam, a woman who requested anonymity, disclosed to a local news outlet that the texts she received were concerning. She stated that her loved ones had also received them and some of the messages contained the recipients' names.
Pam stated that some messages contained individuals' personal names, while others began with a statement indicating that people would be enslaved and a bus would arrive to transport them.
"What is the origin of your contact information, and how can I safeguard myself and defend myself? What actions will be taken regarding this matter?"
Maya, another recipient, shared with FOX 4 Dallas that she received a racist text message and was deeply disturbed by its content.
"I haven't encountered racism like that before, and it was quite hurtful. The names were hurtful and left me feeling confused. It was a painful experience that left me feeling scared as well."
The FBI has confirmed the authenticity of the text messages and is currently investigating the incidents.
The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent nationwide and is in touch with the Justice Department and other federal authorities regarding the issue.
"Members of the public are urged to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement."
The FCC considers targeting of this kind very seriously, as stated to The Associated Press.
"These messages are unacceptable," FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel stated.
The FBI did not respond to Planet Chronicle Digital's inquiry about the investigation's status.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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