Allegations Divide Wing
The archaeology wing of Harvard's Anthropology Department is facing turmoil following allegations that its chair, Professor Nikolaas J. Van der Merwe, has been sexually harassing female graduate students by telling sexually explicit jokes. Although Van der Merwe has denied these claims, some of his students and colleagues have supported the allegations, while others defend him, accusing the accusers of having a political agenda. The situation has deeply divided the department, affecting morale and the working environment. Several students have refrained from formally reporting the harassment, fearing retaliation and negative impacts on their academic careers. The department lacks female faculty members, exacerbating the problem for female students who have no role models or supportive figures within the faculty. Despite the serious nature of the allegations and the impact on the department's atmosphere, Van der Merwe and some supporters argue that the accusations are unfounded and politically motivated.| Creator |
Lewin, Jonathan A.
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| Publisher |
The Harvard Crimson
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| Date |
1994-02-07
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| Format |
Digital
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| Local URL |
https://www.thecrimson.com/article/1994/2/7/allegations-divide-wing-pthe-archaeology-wing/
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| Tags | Administrative Response, Advocacy, Student Publications |
|---|---|
| Date Added | July 20, 2024 |
| Date Modifed | November 10, 2024 |
| Collection | Harvard and Sexual Harassment |