Ibram X. Kendi Decries ‘Racist’ Financial Audit After Boston University Clears His Beleaguered Antiracist Research Center
Ibram X. Kendi Urges Stronger Support for His Struggling Antiracist Research Center
Ibram X. Kendi (Getty Images)
Ibram X. Kendi celebrated the conclusion of an investigation into his beleaguered Center for Antiracist Research by smearing the probe as “racist” and calling on supporters to send him more money.
Boston University announced Tuesday it uncovered no evidence of financial misconduct at Ibram X. Kendi’s Center for Antiracist Research, which squandered tens of millions of dollars and laid off half its staff in September. The university is still investigating the center’s “operating climate and culture” after former employees described it to the Boston Globe as dysfunctional.
The ongoing investigation didn’t stop Kendi from taking a victory lap in a Tuesday statement urging followers to redouble their support.
“[I]f you know my scholarship, then you know I am hardly surprised about the mass circulation of racist ideas about the corrupt Black leader who needs to be surveilled and investigated,” Kendi said. “What happened demonstrates just how much CAR is needed—and needs to be supported. I am glad this is behind us so we can get back to work.”
— Ibram X. Kendi (@ibramxk) November 7, 2023
The Center for Antiracist Research launched with much fanfare during the George Floyd riots in the summer of 2020, promising to convene world-class academics that would find solutions to racial inequality and injustice. Though it raised more than $50 million since its launch in June 2020, the center produced hardly any original research.
For Kendi, however, the center was a financial bonanza. Boston University loaned $600,000 to a trust controlled by his brother-in-law just weeks after its launch to help purchase a luxury townhouse, and Kendi now charges up to $20,000 for speaking engagements across the country.
Boston University said Tuesday that the Center for Antiracist Research faced a budget crunch in 2023 due to a “steep decline in contributions” driven by the public’s waning interest in supporting antiracism efforts.
Though the Center for Antiracist Research has raised $50 million, only $1.2 million can be used annually to fund its operations, Boston University said in its statement. The center has $30 million locked up in its endowment, and the remaining $20 million is “restricted and can only be spent in specific ways.” The university did not elaborate further on what the $20 million bucket can be used for.
Following the financial audit, Boston University said the Center for Antiracist Research will now operate as a nine-month fellowship program for researchers to conduct their own individual projects while contributing to the center’s publication, The Emancipator.
How did Ibram X. Kendi respond to the investigation into the Center for Antiracist Research, and what does his response reveal about his beliefs regarding criticism and systemic racism?
Systemic racism and create a more equitable society. However, in the years that followed, the center faced numerous challenges, including financial mismanagement, layoffs, and allegations of a toxic work environment.
Despite these setbacks, Ibram X. Kendi, the director of the Center for Antiracist Research, remains determined to continue the work of the center and has called for increased support from his followers. In a statement released on Tuesday, Kendi proclaimed the conclusion of the investigation into the center as a victory and seized the opportunity to criticize those who had doubted the necessity of the center’s mission.
By labeling the investigation as “racist,” Kendi attempted to deflect attention from the issues that had plagued the center and sought to portray himself as a victim of discrimination. He argued that the circulation of racist ideas about him and the center only reinforced the need for their existence and further support. Kendi’s statement reflects his belief that any criticism or scrutiny directed at him or his work is an attack on the larger cause of addressing systemic racism.
While Boston University’s investigation did not find any evidence of financial misconduct, the inquiry into the center’s operating climate and culture is ongoing. Former employees have spoken out about the dysfunctional work environment, shedding light on the challenges faced by staff members and the impact it had on the center’s ability to fulfill its mission effectively. The investigation aims to address these concerns and create a healthier and more supportive work environment.
Despite the mixed findings of the investigation, it is clear that the Center for Antiracist Research has faced significant obstacles. The squandering of millions of dollars and the need for layoffs indicate serious mismanagement and raise questions about the center’s ability to achieve its goals. It is crucial to recognize these issues and work towards finding solutions to ensure that the center can operate effectively and make a meaningful impact in the fight against systemic racism.
At a time when discussions about racial equality and social justice are more pertinent than ever, it is important to support initiatives and organizations that aim to address these systemic issues. However, it is also essential to hold these initiatives accountable for their actions and ensure transparency and responsible management.
Ibram X. Kendi’s call for increased support should be met with cautious consideration. While his work as a scholar and activist has undoubtedly contributed to the discourse surrounding race and racism, the challenges faced by the Center for Antiracist Research cannot be ignored. It is crucial to evaluate the center’s operations, address the concerns raised by former employees, and make the necessary changes to ensure its effectiveness and longevity.
The fight against systemic racism requires a multifaceted approach that includes research, education, and advocacy. It is essential to support organizations and initiatives that actively promote equality and justice. However, it is equally important to remain critical and hold these organizations accountable for their actions.
As the investigation into the Center for Antiracist Research continues, it is our responsibility to engage in an open and honest dialogue about its challenges and potential solutions. It is through such discussions that we can create a more equitable and inclusive society.
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