Historic and Cultural Preservation

Mission

In our work, we position historic and cultural preservation as a strategy to protect community identity, strengthen rural economies, and ensure that historically Black communities and their stories remain rooted in place for generations to come.

Vision

The Department of Historic & Cultural Preservation preserves and interprets African American history and cultural landscapes in Eastern North Carolina while connecting heritage, community resilience, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

“Communities are strengthened through their culture and history. The goal through Freedom is to ensure we preserve the communities we serve. Creating agency by honoring traditions and making sure their vision for their communities are implemented.”

— Turcois Ominek (Co-Founder and COO)

Core Goals

Preserve Historic Places and Cultural Landscapes: Protect and steward historic sites, landscapes, and cultural resources that document African American history and community life.

Strengthen Community Connection: Create opportunities for residents, descendants, youth, and visitors to engage with local history, cultural traditions, and shared memory.

Support Cultural and Economic Development: Use heritage, cultural programming, and tourism to strengthen local economies, support artists and small businesses, and increase investment in historically significant communities.

Build Sustainable Preservation Capacity: Develop sustainable partnerships, funding strategies, and organizational infrastructures that strengthen preservation and interpretation of Eastern North Carolina’s history.

Signature Programs and Initiatives

Historic Wilson Cemetery

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The Historic Wilson Cemetery project preserves and interprets a significant African American cemetery in Princeville, North Carolina, through historic research, genealogical documentation, grounds stewardship, and community engagement. Freedom Org is working toward state and national historic designation while protecting the cemetery as an important cultural landscape and record of African American history in Eastern North Carolina.

Search: Wilson Cemetery Database

Princeville Homecoming

Princeville Homecoming is an annual cultural heritage celebration that brings current residents, former residents, descendants, and visitors together to honor the history and enduring legacy of Princeville, North Carolina. The event supports African American history education, intergenerational connection, community pride, and local economic development by bringing more than 300 people back to the community.