Teaching Hidden Histories

Greater Lawrence is and has always been a mixture of different ethnicities and cultures, but few have come to dominate the political and social landscape of the area quite like the Irish and Latinx communities. In this workshop, we will examine how these communities' journeys exemplify a larger history of structural policies of exclusion, scapegoating and prejudice, but also perseverence and change.

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

• What are the similarities and differences between 19th century Irish immigration and 20th century Latinx immigration in our region?

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

Teaching Hidden Histories examines:

• How do examples of marginalized groups' experiences in Essex County, Massachusetts illuminate how some histories have been "hidden" 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 create a safe environment for difficult conversations about complex issues surrounding race, identity, and what it means to be "American," especially through a local lens that will hit close to home?

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