Rooted in Resilience: The Power of Genealogy for Descendants of Free People of Color (Podcast)

What does it mean to truly know where you come from?

In this powerful episode, we explore how genealogy – especially for descendants of Free People of Color – can be a transformative journey of healing, connection, and empowerment. Our guest, Dr. Jajuan Johnson of the College of William & Mary, shares compelling insights into how tracing these often-overlooked African American family histories strengthens personal identity and reclaims a place in the broader American narrative.

Together, we delve into the ways genealogy can bridge generations, restore family legacies, and uplift Free People of Color communities by honoring those who lived in freedom amid a society built on oppression.

This Episode covers:

• The emotional and cultural impact of uncovering Free People of Color ancestry
• How Free People of Color family research deepens self-understanding and belonging
• Genealogy as a tool for truth-telling in African American history
• Why these stories are vital to creating a more inclusive historical record

Whether you’re starting your own family history journey or are passionate about expanding the American story, this episode will leave you inspired to look deeper and reclaim what was never lost, only hidden and lost.