Harvard: Fostering Education or Feeding Controversy? The Sackler Saga
An increasingly complex and delicate issue has developed around the tragic opioid crisis in Canada and worldwide. One character often thrust into the eye of this storm is the infamous Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, who manufacture one of the most potent and addictive opioids, OxyContin. This pharmaceutical family and the Harvard University community are entwined in an ever-tightening knot of controversy. So unusual is this controversy, that a recent article by CTV News has thrown more light on it.
The Stakeholder: Harvard University
Harvard University is no stranger to the Sacklers’ largesse, as their name graces two buildings, [The Arthur M. Sackler Museum and The Sackler Sciences Center] at the prestigious institution. But recently, the university decided to rebuff protests demanding the removal of the Sackler name, arguing that it would be akin to rewriting history. This decision, unsurprisingly, has sparked a fiery debate.
The Sacklers and Philanthropy: A Paradox
- Philanthropy: The Sackler family, over the years, has given millions of dollars towards philanthropic causes, including educational institutions like Harvard. This philanthropy has immortalized their name on buildings.
- Opioid Crisis: But on the other hand, the Sackler family is widely accused of driving the opioid crisis. A US opioid class action lawsuit against Purdue Pharma resulted in the company filing for bankruptcy in 2019.
- Impact: The opioid crisis has led to an alarming increase in drug overdose deaths, homelessness, and crime rates in North America.
- Protests: The Sackler’s association with the opioid crisis has led students, faculty, and public health advocates to demand that their name be removed from Harvard buildings.
Harvard And The Sackler Fallout
Despite the protests, Harvard University has chosen to retain the Sackler name on its buildings. They argue that removing the name would be equivalent to erasing the university’s history. The university’s reaction to this issue raises several questions, primarily, it highlights the delicate balance between acknowledging philanthropy and the responsibility towards public welfare.
Addressing The Opioid Crisis
Aside from the controversy, the article highlights the need for accelerated efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Stronger addiction prevention and better rehabilitation programs are needed more than ever. The increased availability and use of naloxone are vital to combat overdose deaths. It’s also pivotal that we start reforming our approach towards those affected by addiction through destigmatization and offering support instead of casting judgment.
In Conclusion
The saga surrounding the Sackler name, Harvard University, and the opioid crisis is undoubtedly steeped in controversy that can distract from the real issue at hand – the pervasive and destructive nature of the opioid crisis itself.
The controversy does admonish us on several fronts:
- There’s a pressing need to address the opioid crisis proactively.
- Promote the use of naloxone to prevent overdose deaths.
- Reevaluate our view of those struggling with addiction to lessen stigma and increase support.
- Question if it is right or fair to acknowledge the philanthropy of those linked, directly or indirectly, with the opioid crisis.
In the grand scheme of things, it’s crucial that we make a concerted effort to address the opioid crisis, despite the complications and controversies that may arise.
