RPS and NAACP respond to racist text message incident and urge community to speak out

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) — Over the past week, many Black Americans and students across the country received racist text messages related to slavery – a situation that affected more than 30 states, according to the Federal Communications Commission's Enforcement Bureau.

On Tuesday, Rochester Public Schools (RPS) confirmed to KTTC that some in the district were among the recipients of these text messages. In response to these text messages, RPS and the Rochester chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) declared that it was an act of terrorism against Americans.

“This is the reality your students face. of what awaits your black colleagues,” said Walé Elegbede of the NAACP’s Rochester branch. “Last time we had the presidential election, we saw a lot of hate coming from certain groups. I suspect we’ll see more of this.”

In the wake of these discriminatory actions, Will Ruffin II, director of equity and engagement at RPS, said speaking out is critical to promoting a safe learning environment. The school district reminded students, parents and staff about “SpeakUp” – a tool that allows students, staff and families to report incidents of discrimination, harassment or hate.

“By safe, I mean physical safety and psychological safety,” Ruffin said. “It’s difficult for a student to walk down the hall when they’re not sure who’s going to say a racial slur about them on any given day.”

Ruffin said Rochester is a microcosm of America – discriminatory behavior has long existed in the city.

“I remember being in the classroom and teaching about the Little Rock Nine,” he said. “We talk about the 1950s and also about Ruby Bridges, who was still alive. Here we are in 2024 and we still have some of the same things going on.”

To prevent the spread of hate, Elegbede said the community must play a role. He said: “We overcome this by saying, ‘No, this is everyone’s business and not our city.’ Are we going to allow this racism and hold people accountable?”

To submit a report, email [email protected] or call or text 651-381-6083.

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