Common Ground: Collective Stories of North Carolinians

Juneteenth

Celebrate Freedom

The North Carolina African American Heritage Commission joins in the celebration of Juneteenth and commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans throughout the former Confederacy.

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Several people sit individually in kayaks lined up side by side on the edge of a river

Travel and Tourism

Discover Summer

Summer is perfect for back-road wanderings and new adventures. Whether your plans include a staycation or a vacation, we’ve got you covered!

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Monthly Event Roundups

Sign up for our monthly event roundups to stay up to date on experiences with the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

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Common Ground brings together the stories, voices, and experiences that shape who we are as North Carolinians and as Americans.

Through stories of Juneteenth, Pride Month, Outdoor Month, and the people who make this state home, we’re exploring what unites us: the ground we share, the histories we honor, and the future we build together.

Add Your Voice

Through Voices of North Carolina, we hope to assemble a collection of meaningful, authentic, and interesting stories that paint a picture of North Carolina today and its history.

North Carolina For All, Forever

North Carolina’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and community. From the first call for independence to groundbreaking movements that shaped our nation, our state has played a pivotal role in America’s journey.

This Land Holds Our Stories

The History of Pride

James Miller, former executive director of the LGBTQ Center of Raleigh, presented in 2018 on the history and community impact of Pride Month.

Freedom park realistic drawing with a diverse crowd walking through the park reading the text inscribed on copper stone, with the golden liberty flame monument as the backdrop

North Carolina Freedom Park

Freedom park stands as a timeless tribute to the universal ideals of liberty, resilience, and equality.

Singing on the Land

This virtual music project celebrates the stories of historic sites across North Carolina through performances by local musicians.

North Carolina's Liberation Story

Join us for a conversation on the History of Juneteenth at Historic Stagville with United States Colored Troops reenactor Bernard George.

NC State Parks

Passport Program

Encouraging exploration of North Carolina's natural beauty, this program invites participants to visit various state parks, collecting stamps along the way. It's an invitation to connect with the land and the stories it holds.

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North Carolina's Cultural Heritage

The African American Heritage Commssion

The African American Heritage Commission works to preserve, protect, and promote North Carolina’s African American history, arts, and culture for all people.

The American Indian Heritage Commission

The North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission advises and assists the Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources in the preservation, interpretation, and promotion of American Indian history, arts, customs, and culture.