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Freshfields sponsors historical research at Oxford University
As part of its commitment to addressing racial inequality, international law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is sponsoring independent historical research. This will focus on the role of the City of London and its eco-system in relation to the transatlantic slave trade. It will explore and reflect upon the nature, scale and involvement of legal, financial, insurance and other commercial institutions in the transatlantic slave trade and slave ownership.
The research will take the form of a postdoctoral fellowship at Nuffield College, Oxford University. It is anticipated that this body of research will make a significant contribution to the growing body of scholarly literature on the intersections between the history of the British economy and the history of slavery in the broader context of empire.
Supporting this fellowship is one part of Freshfields’ evolving efforts to improve diversity and inclusion within the firm. “Understanding our past is one of the foundations for change in education, opportunity and representation today”, Edward Braham, Freshfields Senior Partner, explained. “The firm is committed to playing its part in addressing systemic injustices from slavery which are still with us.”
Nuffield College has started the recruitment process with the aim of awarding the fellowship early next year. It is hoped that this fellowship will attract applicants from diverse backgrounds and play a meaningful part in improving racial diversity at senior levels of the academic field and within top-tier academic institutions.
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About Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP is a global law firm with a long track record of successfully advising the world's leading national and multinational corporations and financial institutions on ground breaking and business-critical challenges. Our team of more than 2,800 lawyers and other legal professionals delivers global results from our 28 offices worldwide. Our commitment, local and multinational expertise and business know-how means our clients can rely on us when it matters most.
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For further information contact:
• Rolf Benders
Rolf.Benders@freshfields.com
+49 151 29 22 52 72
• Miranda Ward
Miranda.Ward@freshfields.com
+442077164439