NEW YORK, NY (September 11, 2025) – Rev. Sharpton, Founder and President of National Action Network (NAN), issued the following statement as several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are on lockdown amid ongoing threats. News of the threats comes a day after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was murdered during an appearance at a Utah college. Rev. Sharpton and NAN denounced Kirk’s killing, as the organization has steadfastly condemned all forms of violence, whether driven by hate, political motivation, or other motives.
“National Action Network is monitoring the ongoing threats to Alabama State, Virginia State and Hampton University. We have seen too much violence on our campuses, whether it was the brazen murder of Charlie Kirk yesterday or the threats against these HBCUs today. Colleges and Universities should be a place of free expression and debate in a way that’s respectful, engaging, and productive. What we have seen the last two days is anything but that. HBCUs have seen their fair share of attacks in recent years, including the 2023 incident at Edward Waters University and the 2024 shooting at Tuskegee University.
Political violence or acts of hate get us nowhere. We can march, we can debate, but we cannot cause physical harm to those we disagree with. As someone who was stabbed leading a non-violent protest 34 years ago, I know this too well. It’s why I condemned the shooting of Donald Trump last year, the murder of Charlie Kirk yesterday, and the threats to HBCUs today. I plan to add additional members to my security detail due to increased threats.”
About National Action Network (NAN)
National Action Network is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the Nation with chapters throughout the entire United States. Founded in 1991 by Reverend Al Sharpton, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to promote a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency, and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, nationality, or gender.
For more information go to www.nationalactionnetwork.net
