Three Historic Black Churches Burned in Louisiana Hate Crime Attacks
Three Black churches in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, were destroyed by arson over a 10-day period in June 2026. Authorities classified the fires as hate crimes. Greater Union Baptist Church, St. Mary Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, all more than 100 years old, were lost.
Three historic Black churches in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, were burned to the ground in June 2026. Authorities said the fires were deliberately set and classified them as hate crimes.
Greater Union Baptist Church, St. Mary Baptist Church, and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church were all destroyed within a 10-day span. Each congregation was more than 100 years old. The buildings were total losses.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives joined local law enforcement in the investigation. No arrests had been announced as of June 22.
Community leaders and civil rights organizations responded quickly. The National Urban League called the attacks part of a broader surge in hate crimes targeting Black institutions. Fundraising campaigns launched within days, drawing comparisons to the international donations that poured in after the Notre Dame Cathedral fire in Paris.
The National Black Church Initiative raised its security threat level for member churches to "Elevated," advising congregations to increase security measures and coordinate with local police.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards called the attacks an assault on the soul of the state. He pledged state resources to help rebuild the churches and assist the affected communities.
The three congregations have been holding services at neighboring churches while rebuilding plans are developed.
