Honoring the Legacy: Dillard University Commemorates African Americans Affected by 19th Century Pseudoscience Testing And Experiments

In the late 19th century, a physician from New Orleans controversially dispatched the skulls of 19 deceased African Americans to a German researcher for racially prejudiced studies. In a significant act of restitution, these remains have now been returned to New Orleans and commemorated by Dillard University. This solemn gesture not only acknowledges the troubling history associated with the misuse of human remains but also serves as a crucial step toward healing and reconciliation. The university aims to honor the identities and lives of those individuals, affirming their humanity and dignity. This memorialization stands as a powerful reminder of the past while encouraging ongoing dialogue about ethics in scientific research and the importance of respectful treatment of human remains. The return and recognition of these skulls mark a critical moment in addressing historical injustices and fostering awareness in today’s society.