From Jim Power at NEHGS:
American AncestorsNEHGS and the Boston Public Library have joined forces to bring you an informative virtual seminar on Wednesday, May 20, at 6 p.m. EDST. This event features journalist Libby Copeland, who will be exploring the subject of her new book The Lost Family. The talk is part of a series called American Stories, Inspiration Today, aiming to provide a historical, insightful, and inspiring perspective of the American experience in these unique times. Registration for the event, which is free, is now open.
Copeland is set to delve into the fascinating world of DNA testing and how it is revolutionizing our understanding of family and identity. She will be in conversation with Amy Dockser Marcus, a renowned health and science reporter for the Wall Street Journal. This enlightening online discussion aims to provide a deep and insightful view into the cultural, scientific, and commercial aspects of DNA testing.
In her book, The Lost Family, Copeland casts light on the life-altering effects of home DNA tests. She shares stories of how adoptees found their biological parents, how adults conceived through donation unexpectedly discovered dozens of siblings, and the phenomenon of people finding out they are not biologically related to their fathers. Her findings confront our understanding of race, ethnicity, and personal history in light of newly discovered ancestral histories.
Margaret Talcott, co-producer from American AncestorsNEHGS, believes the book is not only timely but is also a precautionary tale for anyone involved in genetic family research. As aptly mentioned by the New York Times, Before You Spit in That Vial, Read This Book.
Libby Copeland’s impressive career includes engagements with the Washington Post, New York magazine, the New York Times, and the Atlantic. She also has extensive television and radio appearances. Amy Dockser Marcus is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist specializing in health and science for the Wall Street Journal.
Enjoy this free event by registering at https://wgbh.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TUJ37hOESyKWPs0wcrseBA.
The American Stories, Inspiration Today series continues with author Honor Moore presenting her book OUR REVOLUTION: A Mother and Daughter at Mid-Century on Monday, June 8, at 6:00 pm EDST. Registration link: https://wgbh.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VPivIIVFSH2tlU25ObCFTw
The American Inspiration Authors Series by American AncestorsNEHGS, launched in Fall 2019, presents celebrated authors discussing themes of personal identity, families, immigration, as well as social and cultural history. This series now has a virtual edition titled American Stories, Inspiration Today, engaging readers at home during these challenging times. More information at https://www.AmericanAncestors.org/inspire.
American Ancestors New England Historic Genealogical Society, being the nation’s oldest genealogical organization, is dedicated to connecting people with their past for a clearer understanding of the present.