Fact Check: "Harvard's Legacy of Slavery Initiative halted after uncovering too many names."
What We Know
The claim that Harvard's Legacy of Slavery Initiative was halted after uncovering too many names is inaccurate. The initiative, which began its formal research into the university's historical ties to slavery in 2007, released a comprehensive report in April 2022 detailing its findings, including the university's direct, financial, and intellectual connections to slavery (Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery Initiative). The report also included seven recommendations aimed at addressing these historical injustices.
Despite recent staff layoffs within the initiative, the university has not ceased its efforts. In fact, the initiative continues to focus on memorialization, partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and support for descendant communities (Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery Initiative, Harvard Slavery Descendants Program: What's Next?). The research component remains active, and there is no official indication that the initiative has been "halted."
Analysis
The claim appears to stem from recent reports about layoffs within the initiative, which have led to speculation about the future of the project. For instance, a recent article from The Guardian discusses the dismissal of a researcher who was involved in uncovering the names of enslaved individuals connected to Harvard. The researcher claimed that the extent of the findings—"too many slaves"—was a factor in his termination. However, this does not equate to the initiative being halted; rather, it reflects internal changes and challenges faced by the program.
Moreover, a report from Harvard Magazine indicates that the layoffs were part of broader upheavals but does not suggest that the initiative's goals or research efforts have been abandoned. In fact, the initiative's leadership has publicly defended its ongoing commitment to the project, emphasizing that there is "no limit on the research" (The Crimson).
The sources discussing the layoffs and internal changes, while credible, do not provide evidence that the initiative has been officially stopped. Instead, they highlight the complexities and challenges faced by institutions grappling with their historical legacies.
Conclusion
The claim that Harvard's Legacy of Slavery Initiative has been halted due to uncovering too many names is False. While there have been staff layoffs and internal challenges, the initiative continues to operate and pursue its objectives. The university remains committed to addressing its historical ties to slavery through ongoing research and community engagement.
Sources
- Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery Initiative
- Harvard hired a researcher to uncover its ties to slavery. He ...
- A Shakeup at Harvard's Legacy of Slavery Initiative
- Harvard dismisses staff from Slavery Remembrance Program
- ‘No Limit on the Research’: Bleich Defends Legacy of ...
- Harvard Slavery Descendants Program: What's Next?
