RPS and NAACP responds to racist text message incident, asks community to speak up

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – Within the past week, many Black Americans and students nationwide received racist text messages referencing 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 with KTTC some within the district are among the recipients of these text messages. In response to these SMS notes, RPS and the Rochester Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) stated it is hurtful—that it is an act of terror on Americans.

"This is the reality of what your students are facing; of what your black colleagues are facing," NAACP Rochester Branch Walé Elegbede said. "The last time we had the presidential election, we saw a lot of hatred that's coming out from certain groups. I suspect we're going to see more of this."

In the wake of these discriminatory actions, RPS Director of Equity and Engagement Will Ruffin II said speaking up is crucial to foster a safe learning environment. The school district reminded students, parents, and staff members of "SpeakUp"—a tool that allows students, staff, and families to report any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or hate.

"By safe, I mean physically safe and psychologically safe," Ruffin said. "It's hard for a student to walk down the hallway if they are unsure of who's going to say a racial slur towards them on any given day."

Ruffin explained Rochester is a microcosm of America—that discriminatory behavior has been happening in the city for a long time.

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

To prevent spreading hatred, Elegbede said the community has a role to play. He said, "The way we overcome this is by saying no, this is everyone's business and not in our town. Are we going to let that racism exist and we're going to hold people accountable."

To make a report, send an email to or call or text 651-381-6083.