Conversation, Fireside Chat, Interview
Talks at GS – Dr. John J. DeGioia and Dr. Ruth Simmons: Confronting the Legacy of Slavery
- Brown University plans to open a renovated building as a new residence hall.
- Leadership intends to convene colleagues to re-examine historical understanding in the context of current national events, with a specific focus on the legacy of slavery and segregation.
- Travel is expected to continue globally to discuss how nations are addressing the enduring legacy of slavery, described as an active and unfinished process.
- There is an expectation that future generations will judge current institutions and society based on their response to today's actions, including the refugee crisis, specifically looking back 50 years hence.
- Accountability measures are anticipated through the Georgetown report to address the enduring legacy of slavery and subsequent segregation in the present moment.
- A specific limitation is noted regarding the inability to restore the original names of enslaved individuals lost 180 years ago.
- Educational focus is planned to shift toward teaching ethical behavior among students rather than emphasizing blame, with a personal hope that truth-telling efforts honor those damaged by slavery.
- A historical data point indicates that in 2016, the life expectancy gap in Washington, D.C. between white and Black residents was 15 years, attributed to factors beyond gun violence.
- There is a contingency outlook where the current president may be remembered as the last African-American president of an Ivy League university in the event of failure, while otherwise aiming to be accountable to their community of origin.
- Continued learning from past experiences in addressing these challenges is expected to inform future leadership strategies.