Reflective Reinvention: Addressing the Skeletons in our Past

Many of our institutions of higher learning have a history that, when judged by current standards, is embarrassing and sometimes shameful. Slave owners, slave traders, confederate generals, plantation owners – are associated with colleges in both the South and the North. Institutions were founded and endowed by these historical figures. Some colleges bear the names of these individuals, others have named buildings in their honor.

As educators, concerned about reputation and integrity, how should we respond? Do we press on, unmindful of the past …. Do we remove statues, rename buildings …. Apologize for the sins of our forebears ….