For the Record | Capital B Builds a National Black Oral History Archive
Hall of Records · Chamber of Knowledge
Capital B launched For the Record as a national oral-history project collecting firsthand memories from Black people across generations, regions, and identities.
Record Overview
The project began with more than 100 collected stories and set a goal of preserving 250 memories as the United States approached its 250th anniversary.
Documented Record
Capital B describes the project as an archive of ordinary Black life, including personal memories, family experiences, community change, work, migration, joy, and struggle.
Why This Record Matters
The archive rejects the idea that only famous people or nationally recognized events deserve preservation. It treats everyday Black testimony as historical evidence.
Record Timeline
- 2026: Capital B launches For the Record.
- Launch phase: More than 100 stories are collected.
- Ongoing: The project works toward a 250-story archive.
Living Archive
- How will contributors retain access to and control over their stories?
- Where will the complete archive be preserved long term?
- What regions and generations remain underrepresented?
Primary Sources
Image credit: Capital B official project graphic.
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