University of Virginia Issues a Formal Apology for Its Use of Slave Labor

The board of visitors of the University of Virginia issued a formal apology for the university’s use of slave labor in the period from 1819 to 1865.

Slaves were used in the construction of many buildings on campus and they also worked in many service positions. Students also brought slaves to campus to act as their personal servants. Recent research has shown that at one time as many as 185 slaves were housed on campus.

Previously, the board of visitors had authorized a monument on campus to recognize the work done by slaves.

The new resolution also recommitted the university to the adoption of a principle of equal opportunity.

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