The Hacking into History Project was conceived in 2020 on a walk between neighbors. An archivist and the ED of the nonprofit, DataWorks NC, vented about what was happening in our home of Durham: the lack of affordable housing and gentrification. The conversation turned to Durham’s history of barring nonwhites from owning or leasing properties, or even being laid to rest in burial plots. At the time, this historical practice of racially restrictive covenants was not well known.
This year, supported by a North Carolina Humanities grant, we are creating and presenting an exhibit about racial covenants in Durham. Our intentions are: to increase awareness of this lesser-known form of structural racism, show its impact on our city and county in the present day, inspire community action, and find possible remedies.
Our grant project included hosting a series of community listening sessions during which we shared our work from the past five years, and gathered input to help shape the design of the exhibit.
We are excited to share this exhibit with you, and celebrate what we have accomplished together over the past five years as a community-driven project. Refreshments will be provided.
This event is at Perfect Lovers, an art space & espresso pop-up, 2823 N Roxboro St. The exhibit, supported by an NC Humanities grant, will remain on display during Perfect Lovers’ open hours. There is plenty of parking behind the building via E. Edgewood Dr.
Date: October 17, 2025 at 6:00 PM (Eastern Time)
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