The Freedmen Nation Genealogy Training Program Has Officially Launched
- Freedmen Nation
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
We are proud to announce the launch of the Freedmen Nation Genealogy Trainee Certification Program, a structured 6-week training course developed under the Freedmen Reparations Fund Trust. This training is now open and available to all members at no cost.
This program was created to build a network of culturally competent, professionally trained genealogists who can accurately trace and verify the lineage of American Freedmen using historical records, government archives, and trusted research platforms.
This is not just a course—it’s a pathway to certified work under the Trust.
Trainees will gain practical experience and instruction in:
Post-emancipation records (Census, Freedmen’s Bureau, Dawes Rolls)
Building lineal family trees with historical accuracy
Identifying common errors and verification red flags
Using tools like FamilySearch, Fold3, and National Archives
Logging credit hours and submitting official uploads to the Trust
The program is completely free. There are no enrollment costs, subscriptions, or licensing fees. All you need is commitment and consistency.
Work at your own pace.
This is a self-paced training designed for those with full-time jobs, families, and other responsibilities. You move through each week as your schedule allows, with support from instructors and clear tracking tools.
An instructor is assigned to guide you and keep the process moving.
They will provide feedback, review your work, and help ensure that trainees stay on track toward certification.
You must be verified to join the Membership (Genealogy Training) Department.
Verification confirms your eligibility and standing under the Trust.
To get verified, submit your documents at:
Once certified, you can start your own genealogy business.
Graduates of the program are eligible to:
Contract with the Trust to assist unverified Freedmen
Offer services as an independent genealogist under the Trust’s cultural authority
Build a client base through referrals from the Trust’s intake system
The Trust will always have unverified Freedmen who need assistance completing their documentation. Your certification will place you in position to help meet that need—while building a professional service rooted in legacy and identity.
To begin, go to the Membership Group and open the pinned post with full training documents and instructions for logging submissions.
The records are waiting. The stories need to be told. Let’s do the work.
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