NEW ORLEANS — A jazz funeral was held Saturday in New Orleans for 19 Black individuals whose skulls were used in a racist scientific study in Germany more than 150 years ago.

In the 1800s, a New Orleans doctor sent the skulls of 19 Black residents to Leipzig, Germany, where researchers engaged in racially biased studies aimed at falsely asserting that African Americans had inferior intelligence.

More than a century and a half later, their remains have been returned to New Orleans. Dillard University and several local organizations held a memorial service at Lawless Memorial Chapel on Dillard’s campus to honor the individuals who had never previously received a proper funeral.

“It is a profound honor for a coalition of community partners to work alongside the University of Leipzig to ensure that these individuals are returned home with the dignity and reverence they were long denied,” said Dr. Eva Baham, Chair of the Repatriation Committee. “This collaboration is not only an act of justice – it is an act of healing, rooted in a shared commitment to truth and historical accountability.”

“At University Medical Center, we are proud of our deep roots in Charity Hospital and remain committed to honoring that legacy by partnering with institutions that share our history and dedication to our community,” said Charlotte Parent, Vice President of Business Development at University Medical Center New Orleans. “We are honored to join Dillard University and the City of New Orleans in recognizing and respecting the individuals and families impacted by racial inequities, as we work together to create a more just and compassionate future.”

The Black Men of Labor and Kumbuka African Dance and Drum Collective performed during the jazz funeral. The remains were laid to rest at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial.

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