A year ago
Renowned British-Ghanaian architect David Adjaye has found himself at the center of allegations of serious sex crimes. The award-winning cultural icon has received design recognition around the world, including the National Cathedral of Ghana, the UK's new Holocaust Memorial, and the Museum of West African Art in Benin City, Nigeria.
Three former employees have come forward, accusing Adjaye and his company of various forms of abuse, including alleged sexual assault, sexual harassment, and fostering a toxic work environment.
Those years-long allegations paint a disturbing picture of the architect's out-of-control behavior.
Three women, who requested anonymity, share common experiences. At the time of the alleged attacks, they were all black women in their forties, and each was a single mother with strong professional connections and from influential families. Before working with Adjaye, they knew him and had mutual friendship. Their decision to join Adjaye's company was driven not only by the opportunity to provide for their families but also by their belief in Adjaye's mission to promote black talent in the industry.
One woman expressed particular inspiration from Adjaye's ambition to revolutionize African architecture.
The women came forward in hopes of preventing others from enduring similar abuse and shedding light on Adjaye's alleged private conduct. Their encounters with him not only disrupted their careers but also caused financial instability and severe emotional distress. To confirm these accounts, the Financial Times interviewed colleagues, family members, and friends who were trusted by the women.
The survey also looked at simultaneous emails, documents and text messages. These efforts aimed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the claims and to strengthen the claims of women.
The FT said Adjaye's legal team claims the three women have "grievances of their own" against him. Mr. Adjaye himself also categorically denies any allegations of sexual misconduct, exploitation, or criminal misconduct. These accusations are false and worry me, my family, and everything I stand for.
The architect added that "I am ashamed to say that I entered into a relationship that, although completely consensual, blurred the lines between my professional and personal lives. I deeply regret it."
"To restore trust and accountability, I am seeking professional help immediately so that I can learn from these mistakes and ensure they never happen again."
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