In Re African American Slave Descendants’ Litigation

272 F.Supp.2d 755 (2003)

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Nature of the Case

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Facts

Ps, who identify themselves as both formerly enslaved African-Americans and descendants of formerly enslaved African-Americans, seek monetary and injunctive relief against various corporate Ds for present and past wrongs in connection with the institution of slavery. Ps seek restitution of alleged profits from the Trans-Atlantic slave trade or the use of slave labor. Ps claim they have a property right in the fruits of their unpaid ancestor's labor under the theories of unjust enrichment and quasi-contract. Ps claim that Ds are liable under the theory of third-party liability for their participation in the violation of international norms and crimes against humanity. At an initial status conference, Ps expressed their intention of filing a motion for the appointment of a special master. Before the deadline for that motion, Ps filed a Motion to Appoint a Mediator. The court addressed Ps' motion.