Various historians have tried to tell the story of African Americans in the 20th century, but rarely has that history been told directly by large numbers of the people who lived it. You can be an important part in capturing the past, and filling the gaps in our country’s history—simply by sitting down and recording a conversation with an elder.

The recording, distribution, and permanent preservation of these elders’ collective wisdom create an invaluable legacy for all Americans of all colors, particularly young Americans, by helping them to understand more fully the complex heritage of our country. When African American elders tell us their own experiences and their observations of historic events, we are learning not about Black history, but American history.

Actively involving young people in the gathering of this material provides an additional benefit: they gain a new appreciation for the rich traditions of the past that they can then use to develop into informed, active, and effective leaders so critically needed for the future.

This simple, straightforward Legacy Guide shows you how to collect and add your local elders’ stories to a large, dynamic, national historical narrative.

Click here to download the guide.