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Scope of the Freeport Legacy Project
To illuminate and celebrate the history and cultural richness of the Freeport, Illinois
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
1."The Freeport Legacy Project” is an immersive documentary-style project dedicated to uncovering the rich tapestry and History of Stephenson County through extensive research, compelling interviews, and the exploration Of Stephenson County. The project sheds light on untold stories and historical milestones.
2. All residents of Stephenson County. Educators, Students Community leaders, and anyone interested in discovering the history and stories of those in our region.
3. The lack of comprehensive education on local history can contribute to misunderstandings and perpetuate misinformed stereotypes.
4. The purpose of the project is to address historical gaps, promote inclusivity, change negative stereotypes, and promote healing and understanding. And foster a community pride, and unity and create a greater appreciation of the diverse history that has shaped our region.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE:
COMMUNITY COHESION
By sharing the stories of resilience and community building, this project addresses the need for unity and pride among residents. It provides a platform for community members to come together, learn from each other, and strengthen social bonds
*HISTORICAL AWARENESS:
Many residents are not aware of the deep history of Stephenson County
*EDUCATION:
The lack of education in the local history can contribute to misunderstandings and perpetuate negative stereotypes.
***ACTIVITIES***
*LOCAL EXHIBITIONS: We will collaborate with the Stephenson County History Museum and other institutions to curate exhibitions showcasing photographs, and stories uncovered during the project. These exhibitions serve as a tangible extension of the documentary, reaching a broader audience.
*YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMS: Establish programs aimed at involving local youth in the project, such as filmmaking workshops and oral history projects. This encourages intergenerational dialogue on the past and present and empowers young individuals to contribute to preserving local history and changing false narratives.
*COMMUNITY SCREENINGS: We will organize screenings of each documentary in libraries, schools, and the local movie theater. This will provide an opportunity for community members to come together, watch the short films, and engage in meaningful conversations that we hope lead to more positive outcomes.
*PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITIONS
* HISTORICAL TOURS THROUGH THE CITY CEMETERY
***TIME FRAME***
The full project will unfold over the course of six months. We look to begin promotion in July to engage our residents. We aim to complete the first episode within the first four months, With the whole project set to be completed by February 2025
EVIDENCE OF NEED:
1. With the review of hundreds of existing historical records and archives we have noticed many gaps and underrepresented narratives related to the Black community and other ethnic groups. We have determined that many in the community aren't aware of the robust history of our community.
2. With "The Freeport Legacy Project" we have created a platform in which we plan to film and collect personal stories and anecdotes from the community members who express a desire to preserve their stories and artifacts for future generations. These testimonials serve as compelling evidence of the project's importance and relevance to the community. We aim to fill in the “Gaps” in the history of our community and will capture diverse perspectives and experiences.
PROJECT IMPACT:
1. In the Short Term, the project aims to raise awareness about the History and different cultural contributions to the community of Freeport, we hope to bring the full history of our community to residents, educators, and community leaders. We aim to engage all residents with the proper cultural celebration of Freeport through exhibitions and storytelling, promoting a sense of community pride amongst residents.
2. Through the Historical Society, we hope to establish a more sustainable system for archiving project materials, including interviews, research, and documentation. This ensures that the project's resources remain accessible for future generations of researchers. We want to work with the local educational institutions to integrate project materials into curricula on an ongoing basis. This ensures that future students have access to the educational resources developed as part of the project. We will maintain an active online presence through social media, a project website, and digital platforms to continue sharing stories, updates, and resources with the community, and also look to organize an annual event. With screenings, or exhibitions to commemorate milestones, celebrate achievements, and keep the project's mission alive in the community's collective memory. With “The Freeport Legacy Project” we seek to encourage residents to contribute their own stories, memories, and artifacts to ongoing legacy projects that expand upon the original scope of “The Soil Project.
3. “The FREEPORT Legacy Project" can raise our organization's profile within the community and attract new supporters, volunteers, and partners who are drawn to our commitment to cultural preservation. By reaching new audiences, particularly those from marginalized communities, The Historical Society can broaden its impact and relevance within the community.
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