Preserving Our Legacy:
The Merrick Moore Oral History Project
By Maya Lewis, Insight Colearning Student & MMCDC Intern
Introducing the Merrick Moore Oral History Project
In this day and age, when proven history is being overwritten, denied, or destroyed, the preservation of Black history is more important than ever. As a community, we must do as much as we can to prevent our personal history from being erased and forgotten. Merrick Moore CDC, in partnership with North Carolina Central University, is combating the erasure of Black history by hosting the Merrick Moore Oral History Project, a beautiful gathering of community that honors Black legacies and traditions. At this event, you will be able to witness and take part in a shared conversation that uplifts our community’s stories, learn about the archiving process, and view oral history clips.
Why is this important?
This event protects cultural memory and legacy, preserving traditions, stories, and legacies so that the younger generations will understand the resilience and contributions that shaped their community while also centering voices that have historically marginalized. Mainstream narratives in history are full of gaps and omissions, and one of our goals for this event is to correct those mistakes and fill in those gaps with the voices that have been previously silenced, now louder and clearer than ever.
This gathering further strengthens the identity and pride of the community, giving residents and community members a deeper sense of belonging and shared purpose, and building intergenerational connection. The wisdom, stories, and experience of community elders can help guide the youth and sustain the community. The lived experience of community elders is a priceless resource we must properly utilize to inform and influence our leaders and representatives to make the most equitable changes to laws, systems, and policies. This type of equitable decision-making, guided by community leaders and elders, directly benefits our community, its members, and the people of Durham.
The Merrick Moore Oral History Project is a golden opportunity to strengthen community bonds by celebrating our roots, advocating for marginalized voices, and building intergenerational connections. Join us in honoring the legacy of our ancestors and help us preserve our stories and support your community by showing up on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, at Mount Zoar Baptist Church from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. Your support makes a difference.
