Beyond “Fair Harvard”: Perspectives from Black Alumni

Following the release of the report and recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery in April 2022, Harvard Radcliffe Institute and other schools across the University are engaging with the legacies of slavery, continuing to excavate the past and understand its contemporary effects.

While the report “uncovers Harvard’s complicity with slavery and its legacies,” it “also recognizes as a part of the University’s history enslaved people of African and Native descent whose contributions have been overlooked” and seeks to amplify stories of “Black resilience, agency, and achievement in the face of persistent discrimination.” In this panel discussion, Black Radcliffe and Harvard alumni from different generations will explore and celebrate stories of resistance, excellence, resilience, and change-making from while they were students and after graduation.

Speakers

Beth Chandler ‘88, president and CEO, YW Boston

Antoinette Nwandu ‘02, playwright

Baratunde Thurston ‘99, writer, activist, and comedian

John Woodford ’63, journalist

Moderator

Randall L. Kennedy, Michael R. Klein Professor of Law, Harvard Law School

Special Advisor

Spencer Jourdain ’61, consultant and writer

This program is presented as part of the Presidential Initiative on Harvard and the Legacy of Slavery, a University-wide effort anchored at Harvard Radcliffe Institute.

Event Video

Black Alumni Reflect on If Harvard Was "Worth It" at Radcliffe Institute Event (Harvard Crimson, 11/17/22)