The University of Virginia (UVA) has announced the suspension of its campus tour program, led by the University Guide Service, following criticism regarding the inclusion of Thomas Jefferson's ties to slavery. In a statement released on Friday, UVA officials cited issues with student volunteer attendance and inconsistent tour content. This decision comes after two years of discussions with the student-led organization to address concerns surrounding guide attendance and tour consistency, with plans for improvement. Contrary to claims made by the conservative alumni group, the Jefferson Council, UVA asserts that this action was not a direct response to their ongoing campaign.

The tours conducted by the University Guide Service had faced challenges in recent times, with spotty attendance by student volunteers posing a significant issue. Bethanie Glover, UVA spokesperson, clarified that the suspension was primarily due to the guides not showing up for their scheduled tours. Refuting allegations made by the Jefferson Council, Glover emphasized that this move was not driven by external criticism, but rather the internal challenges faced by the guide service.

The Jefferson Council, a conservative alumni group, had been advocating for an end or modification of the tour program, claiming that the volunteers were tarnishing the legacy of UVA's founder. However, the university's statement did not explicitly mention the Jefferson Council's campaign as a reason for the suspension. Despite this, Thomas Neale, president of the Jefferson Council, stated that their organization played a role in influencing Governor Glenn Youngkin to appoint new members to UVA's governing board of trustees. Neale believes that this development ultimately contributed to the decision to suspend the tour program.

Neale clarified that the Jefferson Council does not seek to whitewash Jefferson's history as a slave owner but rather aims for a more comprehensive understanding of his role as America's third president and author of the Declaration of Independence. He emphasizes the significance of teaching about Jefferson's 1807 legislation prohibiting the importation of slaves, albeit poorly enforced until the emancipation movement led by President Abraham Lincoln. Neale stresses the importance of mentioning Jefferson's ownership of slaves alongside his contributions to democracy.

In response, University Guide Services expressed its intention to collaborate with UVA administrators to restart tours by spring 2025. They emphasized the need for the tours to provide an honest and comprehensive account of UVA's history. The organization extended apologies to stakeholders, collaborators, community members, and students for being unable to fulfill their mission to the fullest extent during this semester. Despite the challenges faced, University Guide Services remains hopeful in continuing to share the stories of UVA throughout the fall.

As the campus tour program at UVA remains suspended, the university and the University Guide Service will strive to address the concerns raised and work towards delivering a comprehensive and inclusive experience for future visitors.