Founded in 1995, the Middle Passage Project serves to explore the history and memory surrounding the transatlantic slave trade, its resounding effects on Africans in the Americas, and its representation in literature and the humanities.

The Middle Passage Project is multifaceted, with components including research, lectures, artistic performances, curriculum development and workshops for teachers as well as museum educators. It is ideally suited to the development of public programs at museums, schools, libraries, community theatres, historical societies, and other public institutions. 

In spring 2014, the Middle Passage Project formally became a part of the College of William and Mary Africana Studies Program.