The Baltimore
Legacy Project
“The youth can move quickly, but the elders know the path.” — African Proverb
What it is…
The Baltimore Legacy Project (BLP) is an initiative dedicated to unearthing the rich cultural memory of Baltimore, capturing the essence of its residents, and chronicling the pivotal events that have shaped our city over the past seven decades. BLP provides a foundational understanding that will empower the development of future leaders in Baltimore City, providing them with a socio-historical cultural context to build upon. This initiative aligns with the wisdom of the African Proverb, “The youth can move quickly, but the elders know the way.”
The Baltimore Legacy Project is a series of interviews that culminates into a documentary series (docuseries) and is based in the belief that the stories, experiences and reflections of the elders of Baltimore are crucial in preserving Baltimore’s legacy. The Baltimore Legacy Project promises to be the most comprehensive gathering of first-hand historical accounts about Black Baltimore from 1950 -2024. BLP highlights not only the experiences and perspectives of elder residents who have witnessed Baltimore’s transformation, but also those who had a hand in shaping it. By sharing their stories we aim to provide current and future leaders of Baltimore City with a socio-historical, cultural context that will serve as the foundation for future development.
A Note from the Director/ Executive Producer:
I am Rasheem, a social scientist and researcher by training and profession. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to analyzing how socio-historical contexts shape individual experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex ways identities impact lived experiences.
My research has always centered on Baltimore City, Maryland. However, the challenge with my published studies is that they remain behind academic paywalls, accessible only to scholars rather than the very people impacted by the findings. Those who do read my work often engage with it as an intellectual exercise rather than applying it to social change. My goal is to ensure that the work that I do in and for Baltimore makes a tangible difference in the lives of its residents.
This ambition has led me to embark on a new journey, one that involves utilizing my social science research skills in a way that I never have before. This journey is not just important to me but to the city of Baltimore and beyond. I am directing a docuseries called the Baltimore Legacy Project (BLP).
Core Areas of Focus
Baltimore's Black Intellectual History
Baltimore's Black Public Service / Movement History
Baltimore's Space Makers & Anchor Institutions
The History of Baltimore's Creative Community
Baltimore's Black Civic Engagement History
Continuing the Legacy
The primary goals of the Docuseries is
To make sure that those who came before us are remembered
To make sure that those elders who are with us are not forgotten
To make sure that the cultural seed of our ancestors lives on through our work
behind the Scenes...
The World Premiere (film screening) of the Baltimore Legacy Project will air for the first time ever at the Senator Theater in Baltimore, Maryland on April 24th 2025 at 7PM.
2 Episodes of the docuseries will be shared followed by a panel discussion about Baltimore’s Legacy.
