Life experiences are the stories that define us. Our stories, particularly those that have had the greatest impact on us, equally have the greatest impact on others. Our collective stories, when woven together, provide us a deeper level of understanding ourselves, our communities, and our world.
Explore the many stories that make up the 2019 Commemoration and be inspired to share their own, here and through social media, learn more about the Virginia History Trails and download the app, and visit Virginia, where history lives.
AE Stories is an opportunity to share your story with the world. Whether you wish to share something light-hearted or challenge yourself to dig deeper, each story acts like a prism illuminating our shared history in a full spectrum of experiences.
To help you get started, consider the prompts below.
WHAT IS YOUR AMERICAN STORY?
Tell us why commemorating and honoring historic events is important to you, your family or country.
WHAT DOES DEMOCRACY, DIVERSITY AND/OR OPPORTUNITY MEAN TO YOU?
Tell us about an impactful experience in your life related to the Commemoration themes of democracy, diversity and opportunity. What was that experience like and why do you think it made an impact on you?
HOW DOES THE PAST IMPACT YOU TODAY?
When you think about the Commemoration, in particular, the historical events from 1619, which of those events stands out the most to you, why? Please tell us about an experience in your life that relates to one of those events.