In February 2021 the Baylor University Board of Regents accepted a comprehensive report from the Commission on Historic Campus Representations. The group recommended in part that the University establish physical representations – like memorials – to commemorate the contributions of Black individuals to the University. In May 2022 the Board approved a framework to address strategic priorities identified by the Commission.
The project began with renowned architecture design firm Sasaki being selected, along with K4 Construction of Waco, Texas, to develop and build the Memorial.
After approval of design and construction concepts, on February 20, 2024, Baylor held a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Memorial, which was preceded by additional context being placed around the existing Judge Baylor statue to connect his history of enslavement with those individuals recognized by the Memorial. The Memorial to Enslaved Persons was officially dedicated on November 7, 2025.