Black History Month is a time to honor, remember, and celebrate the generations of Black Americans whose lives and contributions have shaped our nation, often in ways that were not fully documented or told. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of Black History Month’s official recognition, new tools and historical collections are helping families reconnect with their roots and reclaim their stories.

Joining us now is Nicka Sewell-Smith, Senior Story Producer at Ancestry and a professional genealogist with more than 20 years of experience researching family history, including the lives of enslaved people and their communities. She’s here to share how people can begin exploring their ancestry and why this work is so meaningful today.