Tougaloo College, a historically Black institution with deep roots in the civil rights movement, faces threats after U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett delivered a stirring commencement address.
The threats followed Crockett’s May 4 speech, which encouraged graduates to “walk into your purpose and to walk in greatness with your head held high” while invoking the legacy of Tougaloo’s role in the fight for justice.
In a letter to the campus community, Tougaloo President Dr. Donzell Lee confirmed the college had received “concerning calls” and assured students and staff that law enforcement had been contacted and safety protocols were in place.
“We are not taking these occurrences lightly. Appropriate actions have been taken,” Dr. Lee wrote. “As always, your continuing safety is our primary concern.”
‘No low is too low for MAGA’
Congresswoman Crockett responded publicly, blaming supporters of President Donald Trump for the threats. “No low is too low for MAGA… now explain to me why an institution would be receiving threats because of the commencement speech that I gave?” Crockett posted on X.
“This type of behavior is why I constantly need protection. Truth-telling in this country, sadly, is a dangerous business, but college students don’t deserve this.”
She added, “Just as Tougaloo was the only Mississippi campus where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. could speak in the 1960s, it’s now 2025 and this country is still stuck on hate. I’m proud to say Tougaloo is tough – and so am I.”
