Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Releases Statement on Gun Violence and Threats Targeting HBCUs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement in response to recent acts of gun violence and threats made against historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). 

“The recent shooting involving Charlie Kirk is a stark reminder that gun violence continues to threaten us all. Just this week, a 16-year-old student opened fire at a Colorado high school, critically injuring two classmates before taking his own life. 

“Today, Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, was placed on lockdown due to a potential threat to campus safety. Classes were canceled, students were instructed to shelter in place, and faculty were sent home as a precaution. While details about the threat remain limited, this incident highlights the alarming rise in racially motivated threats targeting historically Black colleges and universities, including bomb scares, lockdowns, and nearby shootings. 

“No one should have to live in fear of being gunned down or threatened while at school, church, work, or in their own communities.

“This is not a partisan issue. It is a human issue. Gun violence and racially motivated threats affect every part of our nation and every family, demanding immediate, bipartisan action. We must act now to protect all Americans and ensure a safer future for everyone.” 

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