Discover the history you may know—and the stories you may never have been taught.

The Northern Virginia Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) invites adults age 18 and older to join the inaugural Jennie S. Dean Freedom School. Supported by grant funding from the Mellon Foundation and ASALH, this free program features 10 engaging Saturday sessions of approximately two hours each.

Together, participants will explore African civilizations and the diaspora; slavery and resistance; emancipation and Reconstruction; Jim Crow and migration; Black education and faith; civil rights and voting rights; and African American contributions to American culture, democracy, science, technology, business, and the arts. Special attention will be given to the people, communities, institutions, and historic places of Northern Virginia.

Sessions will feature historians, educators, faith leaders, community members, primary sources, multimedia presentations, and guided conversations connecting the past with issues facing our communities today.

No previous coursework or specialized historical knowledge is needed. Whether you are beginning your journey, expanding what you already know, or looking for trustworthy resources to share with others, you are welcome.