Teaching Hidden Histories

Greater Lawrence is and has always been a mixture of different cultures and populations. In this workshop, we will examine how these peoples' journeys exemplify perseverence and change.

This session explored many questions about this history and its relevance today, including:

• What are the similarities and differences between the people coming to Lawrence from Europe in the 19th century and the people coming to Lawrence from Latin America in the 20th century?

• How can voices from the community inform our understanding of how to approach this topic with our students?

Teaching Hidden Histories examines:

• How do examples of groups' experiences in Essex County, Massachusetts illuminate how some histories have been portrayed within our larger American story?

• How can we help students connect with this history, keeping their voices and ideas at the forefront of our teaching?

• How do we allow for meaningful discussion about complex issues and what it means to be "American"?

This program was made possible in part by a grant from the National Park Foundation.