As the events and challenges of this past year have demonstrated, we are living in a divided nation –one that desperately needs to confront the lasting social, economic, and health disparities borne from our slaveholding past. 
 
I believe we can confront this past with the kind of narrative that builds bridges, not walls.As the founder and director, I know the Slave Dwelling Project can forge a more truthful and inclusive narrative of American history. My colleagues and I have been tackling these difficult issues for 10 years, and we are ready to continue and expand our work, close divides and address inequities. 
 
We need your help.When the pandemic forced us to cancel much of our in-person programming for 2020, we kept going.  Online conversations and virtual tours expanded our reach and impact. At the same time, we miss the transformation which occurs when we are physically together around our fireside conversations or sleeping in historic structures.We head into 2021 ready to build upon our virtual reach no matter what and to expand our in-person impact when the health crisis subsides. We see opportunities to strengthen our outreach efforts — especially to schools and community groups – through a focus on strategic planning and capacity building. Your contributions are vital to this effort.
 
Seeing the value of our work to change the narrative and confront the past, anonymous donors have offered $15,000 as a dollar-for-dollar match for any contributions received from our supporters by December 31, 2020.Your contribution will help ensure that we can continue our work in a time that has been very difficult for so many of us.  Please join us in meeting this match—and encourage your friends and family to do the same—knowing that every dollar you give will double in value.
 
Your ongoing commitments of time, experiences, best wishes, and financial support keep us going and are greatly appreciated. Thank you!Look for the coming release of our 2021 schedule, and plan to gather with us at some of those events. In the meantime have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season!