Advocacy for Genealogy

Alec Ferretti
Apr 4, 2025
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Free through April 11, 2025
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Content

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Welcome
1m 15s
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Introduction
2m 12s
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Understand the Government
4m 11s
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Understand the Issue
10m 31s
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How to Advocate
5m 55s
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Public Hearings
2m 20s
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Case Study
13m 32s
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Organizational Efforts
2m 07s
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Building Relationships
5m 39s
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Announcements / prize
39s
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Questions / answers
1m 25s

About this webinar

From overbearing privacy laws to poor funding to archives, genealogists’ access to the historical records we need are always under threat. Learn why genealogists need to take an active role in fighting for records access, what genealogists have already been doing, and what we can do going forward!

About the speaker

About the speaker

Alec Ferretti is a New-York-City-based professional genealogist, who has worked for the Wells Fargo Family & Business History Center, researching family histories for high net worth clients. Alec specializes in the genealogy of 20th century im
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Key points and insights

In an impassioned and enlightening session titled “Advocacy for Genealogy,” professional genealogist Alec Ferretti pulled back the curtain on how genealogists—both professionals and hobbyists—can influence public policy, funding decisions, and records access. Presented during the 24-Hour Genealogy Marathon, Ferretti, a seasoned advocate and board member of Reclaim the Records, demystified the mechanisms of government and empowered attendees with practical tools to fight for transparency and preservation in genealogical records. This session is a must-watch for anyone frustrated by restricted access or underfunded archives.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the Issue Before Taking Action: Ferretti emphasized the importance of identifying why a record is inaccessible—whether due to outdated laws, privacy regulations, underfunding, or agency indifference. Case studies, such as SS-5 applications and New York death records, illustrated how research into legal frameworks and record logistics can clarify the path to change.
  • Advocacy Is Just Talking to People: Genealogical advocacy doesn’t require legal expertise—it starts with simply speaking to the right officials. Whether contacting local representatives about funding an archive or testifying at a legislative hearing, Ferretti reminded viewers that “advocacy is just explaining your position clearly and respectfully.”
  • Public Comments and Grassroots Campaigns Matter: From testifying in state hearings to spearheading national comment campaigns, Ferretti detailed how coordinated advocacy—like his efforts to block a restrictive New York health records law or the 800+ comments submitted on a federal Social Security proposal—can make a real impact.

For those ready to protect access to historical records and ensure a future for genealogical research, this webinar offers both inspiration and a tactical roadmap. Watch the full presentation at FamilyTreeWebinars.com to explore how even small actions—emails, meetings, or public comments—can shift policy and preserve our collective history.

Be sure to review the extensive resources and case studies referenced throughout the presentation, including sample letters, policy briefs, and advocacy campaign links. Whether you’re tracking immigrant ancestors or preserving access to vital records, Ferretti’s session will help you transform concern into action.

Comments (33)

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  1. TW
    Thomas Whiteman
    5 days ago

    The presenter’s knowledge base was/is incredible. I appreciate their willingness to share.

    Reply
  2. GG
    Gary Gates
    5 days ago

    An outstanding primer for advocating for records retention, accessibility, and funding for the groups that manage and store the records for us.

    Reply
  3. SS
    Susan Schuler
    5 days ago

    Happy to learn there are groups to join that are working to fight for us.

    Reply
  4. LH
    Louise Hinzmann
    5 days ago

    what a great talk, I learned so much. Its scary what the guys with power want to do.

    Reply
  5. DC
    Deborah Clague
    5 days ago

    Wow! Alec’s passion definitely comes through and makes me want to sign up to join in the Advocacy for Genealogy “fight”. Thanks so much for all your efforts in the genealogy field Alec!

    Reply
  6. KS
    Kathleen Schongar
    5 days ago

    Alec presented a really fascinating topic with up-to-date curent legislation, advocacy and current state news. Webinar was packed out with important areas of interest for all levels of geneology research. Thank you!

    Reply
  7. PB
    Patricia Briggs
    5 days ago

    I arrived late so I will have to rematch this great webinar. What an amazing wealth of knowledge. Thank you.

    Reply
  8. DM
    Dee Mathews
    5 days ago

    As a genealogist, I’m so thankful for Alex Ferretti in helping to keep historic records available to the public. Sometimes, people don’t realize these records have been sealed until it is too late. Thanks so much for this wonderful program.

    Reply

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