Harvard to Relinquish 175-Year-Old Photos of Enslaved Ancestors After Legal Battle
The images, taken in 1850 under the direction of Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz, were originally used to support racist pseudoscientific theories.
In a landmark decision, Harvard University has agreed to transfer ownership of 175-year-old daguerreotypes depicting enslaved individuals to the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina. This move concludes a 15-year legal battle initiated by Tamara Lanier, who identified the subjects—Renty and his daughter Delia—as her ancestors.
The images, taken in 1850 under the direction of Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz, were originally used to support racist pseudoscientific theories. Lanier's lawsuit challenged Harvard's possession and use of the photos, emphasizing the lack of consent and the dehumanizing nature of the images. While Harvard retains legal ownership due to doubts about Lanier’s lineage, the university has agreed to transfer the photos to the museum, where they will be contextualized appropriately.
Lanier hailed the settlement as a broader victory for descendants of enslaved people, stating, "This is a moment in history where the sons and daughters of stolen ancestors can stand with pride and rightfully proclaim a victory for reparations."
The International African American Museum plans to work with Lanier to ensure respectful and accurate storytelling of Renty and Delia's legacy. This decision marks a significant step in confronting historical injustices and honoring the humanity of those who were enslaved.
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👉 Harvard agrees to give up oldest photos of enslaved Africans
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