Fact Check: "Over 100 universities worldwide are investigating their ties to slavery."
What We Know
The claim that "over 100 universities worldwide are investigating their ties to slavery" is supported by the existence of the Universities Studying Slavery (USS) consortium, which includes more than 100 institutions committed to examining their historical connections to slavery. This consortium was established to facilitate collaboration and share best practices among universities engaged in this critical work (source-4).
The USS initiative has gained momentum since its inception, particularly following heightened awareness around issues of racial injustice in recent years. For example, a notable increase in institutional activity related to slavery studies was observed after the events in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2015 (source-3).
Additionally, specific universities, such as the University of Maryland, have launched projects like the 1856 Project, which aims to document and acknowledge their historical ties to slavery (source-2). This project is part of a broader trend among universities to confront their pasts and engage in reparative justice.
Analysis
While the claim is broadly accurate, it is essential to consider the nuances involved. The phrase "investigating their ties to slavery" can encompass a wide range of activities, from formal research initiatives to informal discussions or acknowledgments of historical injustices. The USS consortium indeed comprises over 100 universities, but the depth and seriousness of their investigations can vary significantly. Some institutions may be conducting comprehensive research and public acknowledgment, while others might only be in the early stages of exploration (source-6).
The reliability of the sources supporting this claim is generally high, as they come from reputable institutions and initiatives focused on historical research and social justice. However, it is crucial to recognize that not all universities involved may have made public commitments or released findings that are equally rigorous or transparent. For instance, while the University of Maryland's 1856 Project has received attention and funding, other institutions may not have similar levels of support or visibility in their efforts (source-2).
Conclusion
The claim that "over 100 universities worldwide are investigating their ties to slavery" is Partially True. While it accurately reflects the existence of a significant number of institutions engaged in this work through the USS consortium, the extent and depth of these investigations can vary widely. Some universities are deeply involved in comprehensive studies, while others may only be beginning to address their historical connections to slavery.
Sources
- PDF President's Task Force Examining Loyola's Connections to Slavery
- All News | The 1856 Project - University of Maryland
- "The Past Is Very Much Alive": How Historical Ties to Slavery Impact Higher Education Today
- Universities Studying Slavery (USS) welcomes the University of Pennsylvania to the team
- The 1856 Project | The 1856 Project
- Universities Studying Slavery: History and Race
- PDF HARVARD & THE LEGACY OF SLAVERY INITIATIVE - Harvard University
- News - President's Commission on Slavery and the University