A landowner in one of America's most sparsely populated counties has ignited a firestorm of controversy by offering free homes exclusively to "melanated people" while simultaneously facing a federal investigation for allegedly making racist threats against local officials.
Malcolm Tanner, who claims ownership of substantial property in remote Loving County, Texas, has circulated flyers promoting his scheme to provide housing specifically for people of colour. "Land and homes for melanated people," the advertisements proclaim, adding they are "not for white people."
Federal Investigation Underway
The controversial housing offer comes as Tanner finds himself at the centre of an FBI probe regarding threatening communications sent to multiple county officials. Court documents reveal investigators are examining whether Tanner violated federal civil rights laws through emails containing racial slurs and threats.
"I will kill you and your family," one alleged message stated, while others contained derogatory terms targeting white individuals. The communications prompted swift action from authorities concerned about public safety in the county of just 64 residents.
Divided Community Reaction
Local officials have expressed alarm at Tanner's activities. Loving County Judge Skeet Jones, one of the alleged targets of Tanner's threats, confirmed the ongoing federal investigation. "We're letting the FBI handle it," Jones stated, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation.
Meanwhile, Tanner defends his housing initiative as addressing historical inequalities. "White people have been doing this for years," he argued when questioned about the racial exclusivity of his offer. His social media posts further elaborate on his vision of creating a community specifically for people of colour.
Legal and Ethical Questions
Legal experts suggest Tanner's housing scheme raises significant concerns under fair housing laws, which generally prohibit discrimination based on race. However, the remote location and unusual circumstances present complex legal questions.
The situation continues to develop as federal investigators examine both the threatening communications and the potentially discriminatory housing offer. Local residents remain divided, with some expressing support for Tanner's goals while others condemn his methods.
As the investigation progresses, this small Texas community finds itself at the centre of a national conversation about race, property rights, and the limits of activism in addressing historical injustices.
