Ancestors unKnown is Launching

This is the beginning of a movement to revolutionize international approaches to teaching and remembering Black history. Breaking down the notion that history is told by and about only a few, we're bringing Black ancestors into classrooms throughout the African Diaspora. With an innovative history curriculum and personalized genealogy research, we're introducing young people to new perspectives of themselves, the past and their futures.

Idea to Impact 

Ancestors unKnown has already established a strong program model, initiated pilot projects in the U.S. and Suriname, been named a semi-finalist for a 2013 Echoing Green Fellowship, and gained international attention for its innovative approach to Black history education.

But good ideas and great intentions can only go so far without the financial fuel to make them launch.  

Ready to go from idea to impact, Ancestors unKnown seeks your support!  With enough funding, we will cover initial administrative costs, boost the results of the S. Carolina and Suriname pilot projects, and have the opportunity to impact even more students in the 2013-14 school year.

About the Need

Due to the consequences of colonialism, slavery, and ongoing discrimination, Black people throughout the African Diaspora have experienced countless impositions upon their histories, families, and cultures. The ultimate goal of Ancestors unKnown is to counter the impact of these generations of discrimination and erased histories. Increasing student knowledge of both world and family histories will benefit their identity development, academic achievement, and comprehension of present-day social and political matters. 

Since we’re just getting started, support of this campaign will cover the costs of those necessary administrative and legal fees that will legitimize who we are.  But more importantly, your support will go toward program costs in Charleston and Paramaribo, benefitting the remaining pilot period and boosting the organization’s official launch in the fall.

About the Organization

Ancestors unKnown is an international nonprofit organization that uses ancestry research, history education, and cultural workshops to inspire the personal and academic success of young people throughout the African Diaspora.

We combine genealogy research with a global, Black history curriculum. Introduced to their once unknown ancestors, young people gain a new type of education that broadens their skills and affirms their self-understanding. In partnership with families, schools, genealogists, historians, and local organizations, we seek to regain the worldwide memories of Black family histories. 

In 2013, pilot projects launched in Charleston, South Carolina and Paramaribo, Suriname. 

For more inspiration, check out Ancestors Blogging.  Then head over to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.