Authorities are investigating racist texts sent to black Americans

Authorities are investigating racist text messages sent to black Americans across the country telling them they have been “picked to pick cotton.”

“The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent to individuals around the country and is in contact with the Department of Justice and other federal agencies regarding the matter,” the FBI said Thursday.

“As always, we encourage the public to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement.”

Reports of the message began circulating on social media, with users posting pictures of the text they had received.

Although the exact wording of the message differed slightly between some, the tone remained consistent.

“You have been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation,” read one message, according to someone who received the message and posted it on social media.

“Be ready at 1 p.m. SHARP with your belongings. Our executive slaves will come and pick you up in a brown van, be prepared to be searched once you enter the plantation. You are in Plantation Group C. Good day.”

The anonymous messages were reportedly received by black Americans in several states, including New York, Alabama, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee. High school and college students were reportedly among the recipients.

NAACP condemned the messages On Thursday, where President and CEO Derrick Johnson said they are a consequence of the election of President-elect Trump, saying Trump has “embraced and sometimes encouraged hate.”

“These messages represent an alarming increase in vile and vile rhetoric from racist groups across the country, who now feel emboldened to spread hatred and inflame the fear many of us feel after Tuesday’s election results,” Johnson said.

“We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – there is no place for hate in a democracy. The threat – and mention of slavery in 2024 – is not only deeply troubling, but perpetuates a legacy of evil that goes back to pre-Jim Crow- era, and now seeks to prevent black Americans from enjoying the same freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.”

Johnson added that racism in any form, from anyone, should not be normalized.

“Freedom is on the horizon, and we will not be afraid of the future we deserve.”

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