Following recent developments involving the U.S. Department of Justice’s case against the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), the HBCU Campaign Fund‘s (HCF) Founder, President & CEO Demetrius Johnson, Jr. issued the following statement:

I have long admired the work of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). Recent developments involving the U.S. Department of Justice’s case against the SPLC raise serious concerns about the broader implications for civil rights advocacy in our nation.

For decades, the SPLC has played a vital role in exposing extremism, advancing legal protection, and safeguarding communities; particularly those historically impacted by discrimination and inequity, including communities connected to HBCUs. Their work has helped bring attention to threats that often go unchallenged, while standing as a force for accountability and justice.

We must remain vigilant about actions that could undermine or weaken institutions committed to confronting hate and protecting civil liberties. At a time when our nation continues to grapple with division and injustice, the work of civil rights organizations remain not only relevant, but essential.

We at HCF remain committed to our mission: advocating, educating, and uplifting—while standing alongside those who share in the work of building a more just and equitable society for all. We call on the DOJ to uphold the highest standard of fairness, transparency, and impartiality as this case proceeds, enduring that justice is guided by facts and the rule of law.

Learn more about our mission work at hbcucampaignfund.org.