Virtual Conference
America 500K:
Honoring the 500,000 Enslaved at the
Dawn of the American Revolution
JUNE 6, 2026
Why We Gather
In light of America 250, this conference will center the lives of the half-million enslaved people living in British North America as the nation moved toward independence—people too often erased from America’s founding narrative, yet essential to its creation.
We come together to honor the members of our community who uplift our ancestors — through genealogical research, storytelling, and simply speaking their names. On our opening day, we celebrate these tradition bearers who ensure our lineage is remembered and revered.
On the second day, we host our 10th Annual Genealogy and Community Learning Conference, inviting experienced genealogists, historians, researchers, and cultural scholars to lead immersive, hands-on workshops. This year’s theme centers on empowering attendees to connect with their enslaved ancestors, offering practical tools, shared knowledge, and a space to uncover the stories that history tried to erase.
Together, we reclaim our past to strengthen our future — honoring those who came before us, and guiding those who will follow.
Event Highlights
WORKSHOPS
Hands-on sessions to help you trace your roots and reconnect with enslaved ancestors.
SPEAKERS
Experts and storytellers share tools and truths to keep our ancestors’ names alive.
HEALING SPACES
Gather for spiritual, emotional, and ancestral reflection.
Call for Presentations and Volunteers **CLOSED**
We invite members and scholars to Submit Proposals For Presentations that examine, document, and honor the lives of the 500,000 enslaved people living on the eve of the American Revolution, through genealogy, history, scholarship, storytelling, and creative remembrance.
We are calling for ancestor posters and presenters.
We are also seeking volunteers to help make this conference—and our ongoing work—successful.
Opportunities include:
- Session moderators and presenters
- Conference and tech support
- Awards and programming assistance
- Communications and outreach support
If you would like to volunteer in any capacity, we would love to hear from you.
SDUSMP JOURNAL
We are also proud to announce our upcoming Journal.
If you would like to submit, for it, please click here.
ABOUT US
Sons & Daughters of the United States Middle Passage
Sons & Daughters of the United States Middle Passage (SDUSMP) is a lineage society for descendants of individuals enslaved in English colonial America and the United States of America from 1619-1865. It is dedicated to preserving the memory of our freed and enslaved ancestors. The organization was started in 2011 and incorporated in Washington, D.C. SDUSMP is a non-profit, charitable 501(c)3 organization.
Questions?
We’re here to help!
Whether you’re new to genealogy, need help registering, or just want to learn more, feel free to reach out