collecting, preserving, and sharing Black history
Preserving Our History, Ensuring Our Future.
RIBHS connects people, places, records, and programs into a living map of Black heritage across Rhode Island.
archived and cared for across collections
documenting Black life in Rhode Island
preserving African Diaspora artifacts and interpreting our heritage
Community. Education. Legacy.
BirthRiteRI helps young people know their history and lead with purpose.
BirthRiteRI is RIBHS' educational outreach program for high school juniors and seniors, guiding students through career possibilities, adulting skills, and African Heritage and Indigenous histories.
Youth LeadershipTransformative experiences for students of color.
Living HistoryRhode Island landscapes, institutions, and folkways.
Community PartnersLocal organizations opening pathways and resources.
Sep
01
Featured program
AASLH (American Association for State and Local History / National Council on Public History)
Learn more
Oct
02
Nov
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Stories in motion
Watch the work come alive.
These short films share the voices, experiences, and community work that carry Black history forward in Rhode Island.
BirthRiteRI
Young people encounter history firsthand.
RIBHS community
Why preserving Black heritage matters.
RIBHS at 50 years. Every gift keeps the work alive.
For half a century, RIBHS has collected, preserved, and shared the history of people of African heritage in Rhode Island. Your support helps care for the archives, expand education, and sustain BirthRiteRI.