Home / Education / Fisk University Faces Protest Over Data Center Plan
Fisk University Faces Protest Over Data Center Plan
10 Jun
Summary
- Community members and alumni protested Fisk's major campus renovation.
- Critics cite lack of transparency and environmental justice concerns.
- Fisk University defends the project, stating it prioritizes transparency.
Protests erupted outside Fisk University on June 10 as students, alumni, and community leaders voiced opposition to a significant campus renovation plan. The proposed $1 billion Quantum Leap master plan includes a $400 million, 100,000-square-foot Innovation Center featuring a 30-megawatt data center alongside academic and workforce development space.
State Rep. Justin Jones, a Fisk graduate, joined critics, citing a "mired in secrecy and a lack of transparency" regarding corporate partnerships for the AI data center. He drew parallels to the predominantly Black community surrounding Fisk, asserting their concerns should be as recognized as those over a proposed data center near the Nashville Zoo.
Fisk University has defended the project, asserting it has been developed over two years to enhance educational and workforce opportunities. University officials stated the facility is designed under a "do no harm" philosophy, aiming to operate "without burdening our neighbors" and are committed to transparency, inviting community leaders to learn more.
Opponents, including Winston Wright, a Fisk graduate and public health professional, have launched an online petition garnering over 6,000 signatures. They argue that North Nashville residents have historically borne the brunt of major infrastructure projects due to legacies of redlining and urban renewal.
