Stories from the other side
This site is collecting the stories of slaveowners' descendants:
Genealogy has become a passion for many Americans. However, it is our experience that among white descendants of slaveholders, few know of their family’s historical connection to slavery, and in general, those who do are not comfortable researching that connection.
This discomfort is understandable in light of the emotional burden that may come with confronting the truth. The result of avoiding the truth, though, is that it remains buried. Our communities' memories are distorted. Our collective efforts to become truly United States and a healthy society are hobbled by amnesia and denial.
We have found that inviting and listening non-judgmentally to the stories of white descendants of slaveholders creates a "safe space" and allows a depth of sharing that brings important truth to light, helps people connect where there has been disconnection, facilitates healing, and can catalyze fresh thinking and principled action.
Genealogy has become a passion for many Americans. However, it is our experience that among white descendants of slaveholders, few know of their family’s historical connection to slavery, and in general, those who do are not comfortable researching that connection.
This discomfort is understandable in light of the emotional burden that may come with confronting the truth. The result of avoiding the truth, though, is that it remains buried. Our communities' memories are distorted. Our collective efforts to become truly United States and a healthy society are hobbled by amnesia and denial.
We have found that inviting and listening non-judgmentally to the stories of white descendants of slaveholders creates a "safe space" and allows a depth of sharing that brings important truth to light, helps people connect where there has been disconnection, facilitates healing, and can catalyze fresh thinking and principled action.