Governor Ron DeSantis is urging state lawmakers to allocate $10 million for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in Florida.
HBCU security has become a significant concern this year, with nationwide threats in February leading to class cancellations in many institutions. A racially motivated attack near Edward Waters University in Jacksonville resulted in three fatalities this summer, emphasizing the importance of addressing safety issues.
In October, Morgan State University in Baltimore experienced a shooting incident, further highlighting the need for enhanced security measures. Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach has faced safety concerns, including a bomb threat about a year ago.
Bethune Cookman University has made efforts to bolster security in recent years, implementing measures such as over 1,000 cameras and a dedicated security force on campus. Despite these efforts, the university recognizes the need for additional security enhancements, especially given its urban campus location.
Belvin Perry Jr., associated with Bethune Cookman, suggests measures like more perimeter fencing areas and restricting entry and exit points with perimeter fencing. Governor DeSantis’ recent budget proposal aims to address these concerns by allocating $10 million in school hardening grants to Florida’s historically Black colleges.
The governor’s office states that this funding is intended to proactively prevent violence targeting HBCUs. Belvin Perry Jr. expresses satisfaction with the governor’s proposal, recognizing it as a positive step toward enhancing security measures.
“This is not his first opportunity to help HBCUs, and this is a big step in helping us where we truly need help,” Perry said.
