Lectures

Reclaiming the Narrative

Hosted by University Libraries, Reclaiming the Narrative brings together students, faculty, public historians, museum professionals, librarians, and community researchers to explore how we can recover and share the histories of working-class people and other communities whose experiences are often underrepresented in archives and public educational spaces.

Date
Upcoming
Location
Bloomfield Campus, Westminster Hall, 449 Franklin Street, Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Organizer
Stage and podium with guest speakers

Whose stories are preserved—and how can we preserve the stories of those who have been left out?

Reclaiming the Narrative brings together students, faculty, public historians, museum professionals, librarians, and community researchers to explore how we can recover and share the histories of working-class people and other communities whose experiences are often underrepresented in archives and public educational spaces.

Through roundtables, panels, and small-group conversations, participants will consider how museums, historic sites, libraries, classrooms, and community organizations can make under-told histories more visible. The program will also examine public history as a form of advocacy: a way to question familiar narratives, address gaps in the historical record, and help communities see their experiences represented.

WHY SHOULD STUDENTS ATTEND?

Whether you are a first-year student exploring possible interests or a senior preparing for graduate school or a career, this program will introduce you to the many ways historical research can be used beyond the classroom.

Participants will learn how public historians and community researchers:

  • Identify whose voices are missing from familiar historical narratives

  • Conduct research when people have left limited archival records

  • Use objects, buildings, landscapes, newspapers, and other sources as historical evidence

  • Translate academic research for museums, libraries, historic sites, classrooms, and public audiences

  • Develop ethical and engaging interpretations of difficult or incomplete histories

  • Collaborate with communities to preserve and share local knowledge

  • Use public history to advocate for greater inclusion and representation

Students will also learn about work in museums, archives, libraries, historic preservation, education, digital humanities, community organizations, and related fields.

No previous experience in public history is required. Students from all majors and class years are welcome. Register today!

Questions?

For questions or accessibility accommodations, contact:
 

Dr. Melissa Flowers, Scholar-In-Residence, Montclair State University Libraries
flowersm@montclair.edu

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