Inclusion Policy

Effective November 9, 2020

The Middlebury Historical Society is committed to promoting a more accurate, complete, and inclusive understanding of our local and national history. We recognize that the historical record has often overlooked or marginalized the lives and contributions of women, people of color, Indigenous peoples, and other underrepresented communities.

We believe that inclusive history serves everyone. By acknowledging the complexity of the past, we provide a richer, more honest reflection of the people, families, and communities who shaped our town and our nation.

As part of this commitment, we strive to:

• Include the names and stories of spouses, family members, and significant others when documenting individuals and households in historical records.
• Research and share biographical information that highlights the social and personal networks of historical figures.
• Use inclusive references when describing buildings, landmarks, and homes—avoiding the default of naming them solely after one individual when broader family or community associations are appropriate.
• Seek out the stories of historically underrepresented groups, including women, African Americans, Native Americans, and others who have often been excluded from traditional narratives.
• Use inclusive and respectful language wherever possible, while remaining faithful to the historical context of original documents and quotes.
• Refer to individuals using their stated pronouns and be mindful of diverse expressions of gender and identity.
• Share these practices with others through our research, publications, educational programs, and public presentations.

This policy reflects our belief that history belongs to everyone, and that every effort should be made to ensure it includes everyone.