Our Roots / Our Routes
Living Histories
of Belonging and Cultural Sustainability on
California's Central Coast
Join us in building a people's history of the Central Coast
Explore a mosaic of stories and cultural practices from the multifaceted Indigenous, immigrant, and ethnic communities that shape the local region. Be part of a journey to document, archive, and honor diverse local histories that redefine our understanding of community and belonging.
Illuminating Diverse Stories, Cultivating Community Connections
Expanding the Archive
Dedicated to building a more inclusive archive that centers the experiences and perspectives of historically marginalized communities.
Enriching Our Sense of Place
Embracing the diversity and complexity shaping the Central Coast’s past and present.
Envisioning the Future
Custodians of Community Stories
A Multiplicity of Methods
Employing a variety of approaches including oral history interviews, photography, and film to document the rich cultural lives of Central Coast communities.
Collaborative Storytelling
Partnering with communities to support their sharing of their narratives on their terms.
Community-Driven Process
Anchoring our work in the needs and desires of those whose stories we share.
A Living Archive
Leo OG Corley
Barbara Haile
Hanamatsuri
Saty Murti
Help us in making an
Impact Together
Our Roots/Our Routes is more than just an archive of history; it’s a project devoted to recognizing and honoring the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of communities that have shaped the local region. It’s fueled by a commitment to supporting community pathways of self-definition and self-determination, and ultimately contributing to a more just and sustainable future for the Central Coast.
Cultivating a future in which all residents can thrive.