New Orleans recently held a multifaith memorial service to honor the remains of 19 African Americans, whose skulls were sent to Germany for racist research in the 19th century. The service, which included a traditional jazz funeral, took place at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial. Monique Guillory, president of Dillard University, emphasized the importance of recognizing the humanity of these individuals, who suffered posthumous desecration. The 19 people likely died of natural causes at Charity Hospital between 1871 and 1872, a facility known for treating individuals of all races during an era of intense white supremacy.
The remains of the deceased had been kept in wooden boxes at Dillard University since being repatriated from Germany, where they were involved in phrenological studies—a now-discredited practice asserting that skull shape could indicate racial traits. Historian Eva Baham, who led the repatriation efforts, highlighted the broader context of exploitation faced by Black individuals, both living and deceased.
In 2023, the University of Leipzig initiated contact with New Orleans to facilitate the return of the remains, reflecting a commitment to restore dignity to the deceased. Dillard University researchers intend to continue their work, including attempts to locate possible descendants, as some of the deceased likely were among those recently freed from slavery. Guillory articulated the need for collective acknowledgment of humanity, asserting that everyone deserves recognition and respect for their lives. The service marked an important step in addressing historical injustices and honoring those whose lives were diminished by circumstances beyond their control.
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