Hard Histories at Johns Hopkins
Hard Histories at Johns Hopkins is a research initiative that confronts the enduring legacy of racism and discrimination in the university’s own past, opening a path for understanding and progressive change.
Under the stewardship of SNF Agora Institute professor Martha S. Jones, the Hard Histories at Johns Hopkins project integrates research, teaching, public engagement, and the creative arts in a concerted effort to grapple with the history of Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Research + Discovery
Through the project’s History Lab, undergraduate and graduate student researchers examine archival materials to unearth lesser-known facets of the university’s past. This research underpins broader efforts to educate and initiate inclusive and informed dialogue.
Community Engagement
Engaging with diverse project partners from across the university and Baltimore City, Hard Histories encourages the collective exploration of the challenging aspects of the past and their ongoing impact.
“ History tells us how we got here. Hard Histories show us a way forward. ”
Martha S. Jones
Motto of the Movement
Anchoring the project’s ethos is the belief that acknowledging and understanding the difficult aspects of our history is the key to forging a way forward. This conviction drives the continuous exploration, discussion, and transformation necessary for progress.
Unified Efforts
The Hard Histories project is an independent research initiative housed in the SNF Agora Institute. To learn more, please visit the Hard Histories and Johns Hopkins website.
Grappling with history
