Fact Check: More than 100 universities are investigating their ties to slavery.

Fact Check: More than 100 universities are investigating their ties to slavery

What We Know

The claim that "more than 100 universities are investigating their ties to slavery" is supported by multiple credible sources. The Universities Studying Slavery Consortium (USS), which was founded by the University of Virginia, includes over 100 institutions engaged in educational projects related to the legacies of slavery and racism on their campuses (source-2). This consortium was established to facilitate collaboration among universities examining their historical connections to slavery, and it has grown significantly since its inception in 2016 (source-3).

For instance, Loyola University Maryland recently released a report detailing its connections to slavery, confirming its participation in the USS and highlighting the ongoing investigations across various institutions (source-1). The report indicates that these investigations are not isolated but part of a broader movement among universities to confront and address their historical ties to slavery.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as it is corroborated by multiple reputable sources. The USS is an established consortium that has been actively working to address the legacies of slavery in higher education. The consortium's membership includes a diverse range of universities, which indicates a widespread commitment to this issue (source-2).

Moreover, the involvement of institutions like Loyola University Maryland, which has conducted a thorough examination of its historical ties to slavery, adds credibility to the claim. Their task force included faculty, students, and community members, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing these historical connections (source-1).

While the claim is well-supported, it is essential to recognize that the investigations vary in scope and depth among the participating universities. Some institutions may be in the early stages of their inquiries, while others have made significant progress in their research and community engagement. Nonetheless, the overarching trend is clear: a significant number of universities are actively investigating their historical ties to slavery.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that more than 100 universities are investigating their ties to slavery is accurate. The existence of the Universities Studying Slavery Consortium and the active participation of numerous institutions, including Loyola University Maryland, provide strong evidence that this is a widespread and ongoing effort in higher education.