The Midwest
is an epicenter in the fight for racial justice. It has been for centuries. It is one of American history’s most amazing, important, yet overlooked stories — until now.
Welcome
THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MIDWEST: A 500 Year Fight for Freedom is being developed by leading scholars of the African American Midwest, Midwest public television broadcasters, filmmakers, and production partners.
The Latest
THE 1539 PROJECT: WHY BLACK MIDWEST HISTORY MATTERS
Producers Christy Clark-Pujara, Erik McDuffie, Ashley Howard on the overlooked history of slavery in the Midwest
Producers Christy Clark-Pujara, Erik McDuffie, Ashley Howard on the overlooked history of slavery in the Midwest
VIOLENCE AGAINST BLACK TRANS/GNC IN THE MIDWEST
41 African American Trans+ were murdered between 1996-2022 in the Midwest
41 African American Trans+ were murdered between 1996-2022 in the Midwest
Play Video about black union soldiers lined up to pose for photo
THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MIDWEST: A 500 Year Fight for Freedom
Documentary Film in development
explore the history
Resources
Explore the history of the Midwest through interactive maps
Listen to our latest Podcast featuring The story of John P. Parker
View our interviews with scholars, artists and education experts
View our films including the Ida B. Wells: A Chicago Stories Special
Keep in touch with us…