First Comes Truth

Understanding the trials and triumphs of the past can help us all to better understand why things are as they are in our state today.

“Roots of Justice: A History of Race and Racism in Nebraska” tells a history of Nebraskans who have not always been featured when the story of this state is told. Teams of historians gathered well-documented and accurate accounts of five broad groups in our state: Native Americans, African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans and Refugees since 1975.

The idea for this history project took root at annual picnics and discussions started several years ago by NAACP Lincoln and the Lincoln chapter of Nebraskans for Peace. The project is guided by a nine-member Truth & Reconciliation Steering Committee that is co-chaired by Dr. Dewayne Mays, a retired soil scientist and NAACP Lincoln president, and William Arfmann, Nebraskans For Peace Lincoln.

Project  Timeline

To learn more about the artists and murals pictured above, visit:

South Omaha Mural Project

Neighborhood Arts - North Omaha Mural Project

Neighborhood Works - Lincoln, NE

Lincoln Indian Center