Ibram X. Kendi, renowned for his works such as "Antiracist Baby" and "How to Be Antiracist," is set to leave Boston University, marking the closure of the Center for Antiracist Research (CAR) he established.
Kendi's departure signals a significant shift in the university's approach to addressing racial issues, as the center will cease operations upon the expiration of its charter on June 30. The 12 remaining staff members will continue their roles until that date.
As reported by The Post Millennial, Kendi will transition to a new position at Howard University in Washington, D.C. His tenure at Boston University began in 2020, following his recruitment from American University in the wake of the George Floyd riots. The center, under Kendi's leadership, aimed to tackle racial inequities but faced challenges, including financial difficulties and public backlash against critical race theory.
In his farewell statement, Kendi expressed pride in the center's accomplishments despite the obstacles. "Despite all the headwinds we faced as a new organization founded during the pandemic and the intense backlash over critical race theory, I am very proud of all we envisioned, all we created, all we learned, all we achievedthe community we built, the people we helped and inspired," he stated. He also conveyed gratitude to those involved with CAR, saying, "To all the faculty, staff, administrators, students, supporters, and Boston community members, I feel honored to have been able to do this work with you over the last five years."
The university acknowledged a strategic shift in September 2023, citing dwindling public support and financial contributions as reasons for the center's unsustainable future. This strategic pivot included the layoff of 19 staff members, highlighting the challenges faced by initiatives that rely heavily on public sentiment and funding.
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