Why are Harvard’s slavery researchers quitting or being fired?
Summary
Several researchers and academics connected to Harvard University’s study of its slavery history have left or been fired. Some allege the university is hindering efforts to explore its past and build ties with communities descended from enslaved people.Key Facts
- Christopher Newman completed an internship in 2024 related to Harvard’s slavery archives but was escorted off campus shortly after, barred from returning.
- Newman had met descendants of enslaved people linked to a Harvard benefactor and wanted the university to investigate ties with Antigua and Barbuda.
- Harvard’s 2022 report outlined the university’s historical links to slavery in Caribbean countries.
- The university pledged $100 million for programs addressing reparations and accountability for its slavery legacy.
- Despite this, three academics resigned and 11 researchers were fired from Harvard’s Legacy of Slavery Initiative, citing obstacles in their work.
- Professors claimed Harvard delayed and weakened efforts to engage descendant communities for a campus memorial.
- Harvard stated the former executive director resigned for personal reasons and publicly addressed some of the researchers’ concerns.
- Harvard is considered the wealthiest US university with an endowment over $50 billion.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
