Earlier this week, Tennessee State University (TSU) became the scene of controversy after a self-identified conservative group arrived on campus unannounced wearing MAGA hats and carrying anti-DEI and other far-right signage. The group later contended on WKRN News 2 they were unaware TSU was a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
The Nashville chapter of the NAACP swiftly responded, accusing the group of targeting Black students with antagonistic tactics. According to the NAACP, the visitors attempted to engage students using slogans like “Deport All Illegals Now”and “DEI Should Be Illegal,” which were presented as debate—but functioned as provocation.
“While we recognize and respect that free speech is a constitutional right, there is a clear and urgent distinction between constructive dialogue and rhetoric deliberately designed to provoke, demean, and endanger the psychological safety of students at HBCUs,” the chapter said in its statement.
The Tennessee Holler created a post on Blue Sky, disagreeing with the group’s intention: “Let’s be honest—they’re not showing up on HBCU campuses to debate. They’re showing up to agitate our children and incite a response from us.”
An Instagram post they shared stated that they were at TSU, posting the following: “We’re here at Tennessee State University in Nashville—the first HBCU that we’re visiting on the Fearless Tour! Let’s talk.”
Campus police intervened and escorted the group, identifying itself as “The Fearless Debaters,” off university grounds. Students responded with boos as the group was removed from the campus.
In statements following the incident, TSU officials emphasized their commitment to providing a safe and respectful learning environment.
“In accordance with university policy, any demonstration or protest activity requires advance approval and permitting,” the university said in a public statement.
“The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff remain our highest priority. TSU will continue to uphold university policies and ensure that campus remains a safe, welcoming, and orderly environment for all members of our community.”
TSU also credited the campus police for their speedy response, “Campus police and staff responded promptly, and the individuals were escorted from university grounds without incident. At all times, TSU students conducted themselves in a professional and respectful manner.”
TSU confirmed it is reviewing video footage and investigating how the group gained access to campus, as the visit was neither authorized nor scheduled.
TSU, established in 1912, is the only public HBCU in Tennessee. For many students, HBCUs aren’t just academic institutions—they are spaces designed to affirm Black identity, heritage, and community in a society that historically marginalized them. Incidents like this challenge the sense of safety and support HBCUs strive to maintain. This recent visit is not an isolated occurrence.
Across the U.S., HBCUs have endured multiple security threats and stunts in the recent month, underscoring a pattern of targeting. In September 2025, several HBCUs—including Alabama State, Virginia State, Hampton, and Southern University —reacted to terroristic threats and “swatting” incidents that forced campus lockdowns and class cancellations. These events, coupled with the TSU incident, illustrate a disturbing trend of hostile actions toward Black colleges and universities. The tactics may vary from provocateurs showing up unannounced to false emergency calls, but their effect is similar: disruption, fear, and the need for increased security across campuses.
