The resignation of Dr. Claudine Gay from her position as Harvard University’s president has relegated the groundbreaking academician to the obscure reaches of history. Recently a number of prominent Black women penned a letter outlining the need for continued support of Dr. Gay and recognizing the need for deeper examination of the racial divide that continues to exist in America’s educational institutions.
On Jan. 2, Gay issued her resignation after serving as Harvard’s first Black president in the school’s 387-year history. Her tenure only lasted six months.
Gay issued a statement saying, “It has become clear that it is in the best interests of Harvard for me to resign so that our community can navigate this moment of extraordinary challenge with a focus on the institution rather than any individual.”
One of the letter’s creators, LaNeSha DeBardelaben, explained the importance of this moment.“Dr. Gay’s resignation is disheartening and prompts a call to action among Black women. We recognize that we need to galvanize and collectively support one another,” she stated.
“Black women in leadership often lack needed support from their internal organizations which makes the journey of leadership tedious and fraught with stumbling blocks.” The letter was signed by hundreds of women, ranging from state representatives to senators to NAACP members.
An excerpt states:
“Needless to say, it was disheartening and devastating to hear of the factors that were the driving forces leading to your resignation. Racism, sexism, covert bullying, and other marginalizing and demeaning practices are ongoing and persistent impediments to the success and advancement of so many Black women. The stress and strain from these factors may weigh very heavily on you, so know that we are here to carry that load with you. You are brave, you are gracious, and you are a model of Black excellence for our generation and those to come. We wholeheartedly support you and know that you will emerge somewhere even more amazing in time.”
Much of the fallout came following Gay’s controversial appearance in front of the House Committee on Education on Dec. 8 that centered around Anti-Semitic views from some students on campus. She was joined by her counterparts at University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
But unlike her counterparts at University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Gay faced criticism that went beyond her testimony. Right-wing figures used social media as a way to attack her credentials in academia, with many contending Gay was only hired because of a DEI initiative, disregarding her noted achievements in academia.
