Federal authorities are investigating disturbing racist text messages sent anonymously to Black Americans across the United States, including students.  These messages invoked themes of slavery, instructing recipients to “report to the nearest plantation.”  The texts have triggered concern and condemnation, and multiple law enforcement agencies are now involved. Text Messages Spark National Alarm The texts have been reported in states such as New York, California, Alabama, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.  Each message varied slightly in wording, but most instructed the recipients to gather their belongings and prepare to “pick cotton”