New York Attorney General Letitia James on Thursday condemned racist text messages sent to Black and brown New Yorkers in recent days.
There have been reports of New Yorkers and people across the country receiving messages from unknown, anonymous senders claiming that they have been “selected to pick cotton at [their] nearest plantation,” or “chosen to be a slave," James said through a press release.
These texts appear to be targeting Black and Brown individuals, including students, and may include personal information about the recipient such as their name or location.
“The racist text messages targeting New Yorkers, including middle school, high school, and college students, are disgusting and unacceptable," James. "I unequivocally condemn any attempt to intimidate or threaten New Yorkers and their families."
James said anyone receiving such texts should report it to the the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Bureau by calling 800-771-7755, emailing [email protected].