Deliberate Attempts to Block African Diasporan Research
The history of the African diaspora is a rich and complex tapestry, woven together with the blood, sweat, and tears of countless innocent Africans were who forcibly stolen from their once beautiful homes, palaces, and other grand estates. After enduring horrible conditions, they were shipped across the Atlantic Ocean and scattered across the globe. This diaspora has had a profound impact on the cultural, economic, and political landscapes of the countries where Africans were brought and has sparked a growing interest among family members on United States shores and researchers from around the globe.
One example is that once per month, I offer a free workshop for families seeking their ancestral linkages. It has grown from approximately 20 persons to more than one hundred in-person participants.
Intended Hinderance
Lately, I’ve encounted not-so-surprising roadblocks. There are several intentional activities in place to further thwart legitimate research efforts by genealogists like me and dedicated family members who simply wish to trace their roots to the ancestors who are waiting for us to discover them.
The pop-up notice on the enslaved.org website is an example of the “new normal” that is directed from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.
There are countless other related efforts to shut down organizations that are providing information about U.S. history; Black history and African Diasporan history is U.S. history.
Support African Diasporan research
The deliberate attempts to block and hinder African diasporan research threaten to erase and silence the voices and experiences of those who have been historically marginalized, is unfortunate. This denial of information and knowledge not only prevents us from fully understanding our past, but also hinders our ability to create a more equitable and just future.
We must also consider the benefits of supporting and promoting African diasporan research. By allowing diverse perspectives to be heard and studied, we open up the possibility for important and groundbreaking discoveries that can shape and enrich all fields of study. Additionally, this research can have a positive impact on communities and individuals who have been historically marginalized, by giving them a voice and validating their experiences.
Purposeful moves to block African diasporan research have far-reaching and damaging consequences. By understanding the unique features of this subject, and acknowledging its value and benefits, we can work towards breaking down these barriers and fostering a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of our shared history.
