In the aftermath of the recent U.S. presidential election, an alarming rise in racist hate speech has emerged, notably through the form of racist text messages targeting Black individuals. These messages, many of which include deeply offensive content, have been reported in cities across the United States, including Houston, Texas. Black residents, particularly teenagers, have become targets of hate-filled messages referencing slavery and using appalling language to degrade and terrorise them.
What Happened: The Houston Racist Text Incident
On Wednesday, Laura Bass Brown, a Houston-area resident, shared a shocking story with KHOU 11 about racist text messages that her daughter received. The messages were so vile that they shocked her and many others who read about the incident. The message specifically addressed her daughter by name, stating:
“You have been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation. Be ready at 1:00 PM SHARP with your belongings. Our executive slaves will come get you in a Brown Van, be prepared to be searched down once you’ve entered the plantation. You are in Plantation Group K.”
These hateful messages were not just automated spam. When the recipient’s friends responded, they received disturbing replies suggesting that the person behind the message was real, not a bot. Racist groups and individuals have used these disturbing tactics to intimidate and spread fear among Black Americans, especially in areas with significant Black populations like Houston.
Racist text messages like these have been reported in several states including Alabama, North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Austin, Texas, also experienced similar incidents. The fact that these messages have appeared after the election has prompted many to question the role of political rhetoric in stoking racial divisions and hate.
The Bigger Picture: Why Are These Racist Texts Happening?
As many have pointed out, this wave of hateful messaging may be linked to the political climate that has unfolded in the wake of the election. Derrick Johnson, CEO of the NAACP, stated that the election of a president who has sometimes encouraged hate could have emboldened such racist groups to act. These individuals, who now feel empowered, may be using messages like these to stoke fear, division, and tension in an already polarized society.
It’s also crucial to recognize the historical context of the language used in these messages. Referring to Black individuals as “slaves” and alluding to plantations is a direct and purposeful reference to America’s painful history of slavery. The psychological toll on those who receive these texts, especially young people like Bass Brown’s daughter, is hard to overstate.
What Are Lawmakers and Authorities Doing?
Both local and federal authorities have condemned these actions. The White House issued a statement condemning the racist messages, with Robyn Patterson, a spokeswoman, stating:
“Racism has no place in our country—period. We strongly condemn these hateful messages and anyone targeting Americans based on their ethnicity or background.”
The FBI has also launched an investigation, making it clear that these messages are not just disturbing—they may be criminal. “The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent to individuals around the country and is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter,” the agency said.
At the local level, it is essential for victims of hate crimes to report these incidents to law enforcement. The community also plays a critical role in standing up against racism and promoting understanding.
The Role of Social Media in Spreading Hate
In today’s digital age, social media platforms and messaging services have become breeding grounds for hate speech. While these platforms have made strides in addressing harmful content, the anonymity of text messages and online comments still makes it easy for racists to attack and intimidate others.
It’s worth noting that hate speech often escalates during times of national tension—especially in the aftermath of an election, when emotions run high. Whether it’s through racist memes, derogatory comments, or threatening messages like those sent to residents in Houston, the internet can amplify toxic ideologies.
How Communities Are Responding
While law enforcement agencies are investigating these incidents, communities have come together to express solidarity with victims of racial violence. Various community organisations and local advocacy groups are using this moment to raise awareness about racism and its psychological impact. Initiatives to combat hate speech, raise awareness, and promote education on racism are taking shape across the country.
For example, the NAACP has been actively speaking out against this kind of racial violence, reminding people that these actions have real-world consequences for Black Americans, particularly youth.
How to Protect Yourself from Racist Harassment
If you or someone you know receives a racist text message or is the victim of online harassment, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:
- Report the incident to local law enforcement immediately.
- Do not engage with the sender. Responding could encourage further harassment.
- Block the sender and avoid sharing personal information.
- Use your phone’s security settings to block unknown numbers or filter spam.
- Educate yourself and others on digital literacy to better understand how to deal with online harassment.
It’s also important to teach younger generations about digital safety, how to identify harmful content, and how to respond to hateful messages in a constructive way.
Conclusion: The Fight Against Racism Must Continue
The recent wave of racist text messages targeting Black people in Houston and across the United States is a stark reminder of how deeply ingrained racism remains in society. Whether it’s through digital harassment or more direct forms of violence, these hate-fueled actions cannot be tolerated.
We must continue to work toward creating a world where everyone, regardless of their race, is treated with dignity and respect. Racial justice begins with acknowledging the problem and taking proactive steps—both legally and socially—to end it. It is only through collective action, education, and unyielding advocacy that we can hope to build a future free of hate and fear.
