CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Congressional Black Caucus is asking the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI to “swiftly” investigate multiple threats against several Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Virginia State University and Hampton University the day after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

At least six HBCUs canceled classes, locked down campuses and told students and staff to shelter in place after receiving threats on Thursday.

“The threats made against several Historically Black Colleges and Universities are not only vile—they are a chilling reminder of the relentless racism and extremism that continues to target and terrorize Black communities in this country,” said Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) in a statement. Several universities that did not receive threats locked down campuses out of an abundance of caution.

“The threats made against several Historically Black Colleges and Universities are not only vile—they are a chilling reminder of the relentless racism and extremism that continues to target and terrorize Black communities in this country.

“These terroristic threats, designed to intimidate and foment hatred against everyday Americans—in this case, Black institutions of higher learning—cannot go unchallenged and must not be swept aside. Black students and HBCU communities deserve to be protected.

“The Congressional Black Caucus stands in full solidarity with the students, faculty, and staff of HBCUs around our nation, and we remain committed to ensuring their safety and security.

“The U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI must act swiftly to fully investigate these threats and pursue the appropriate legal action against those responsible.”

“While we have no information to indicate a credible threat, we will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to gather, share, and act upon threat information as it comes to our attention,” an FBI spokesperson said in a statement. “We urge the public to remain vigilant, and report any and all suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately.”