Support Preserving the Legacy of Black Baltimore.

# Support the Baltimore Legacy Project: A Letter from Director Rasheem

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I am Rasheem, a social scientist and researcher by training and profession. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to analyzing how socio-historical contexts shape individual experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex ways identities impact lived experiences.

My research has always centered on Baltimore City, Maryland. However, the challenge with my published studies is that they remain behind academic paywalls, accessible only to scholars rather than the very people impacted by the findings. Those who do read my work often engage with it as an intellectual exercise rather than applying it to social change. My goal is to ensure that the work I do in and for Baltimore makes a tangible difference in the lives of its residents.

This ambition has led me to embark on a new journey, one that involves utilizing my social science research skills in a way I never have before. This journey is not just important to me but to the city of Baltimore and beyond. I am directing a docuseries called the Baltimore Legacy Project (BLP).

The Baltimore Legacy Project is an initiative dedicated to unearthing the rich cultural memory of Baltimore, capturing the essence of its residents, and chronicling the pivotal events that have shaped our city over the past seven decades. BLP aims to empower the development of future leaders in Baltimore City by providing them with a socio-historical and cultural context to build upon. This initiative aligns with the wisdom of the African proverb, “The youth can move quickly, but the elders know the way.”

BLP is a series of interviews that culminate in a comprehensive documentary series. It is based on the belief that the stories, experiences, and reflections of Baltimore's elders are crucial in preserving the city’s legacy. The Baltimore Legacy Project promises to be the most extensive gathering of first-hand historical accounts about Black Baltimore from 1950 to 2024 in a single series. This project highlights not only the experiences and perspectives of elder residents who have witnessed Baltimore’s transformation but also those who have had a hand in shaping it. By sharing their stories, we aim to provide current and future leaders of Baltimore City with a socio-historical, cultural context that will serve as the foundation for future development.

To bring this vision to life, we need your support. Your donation will help us document these invaluable stories and preserve the legacy of Baltimore for generations to come. With your help, we can ensure that the rich history and cultural heritage of our city is not only remembered but also serves as a guiding light for the future.

Together, we will preserve and honor the legacy of Baltimore, ensuring it continues to inspire and guide future generations.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Rasheem

Director, Baltimore Legacy Project