New York State Untold Stories

Invited to speak at the New York State 250 Commemoration Summit in Lake George, the NYSTIA DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusivity) Committee was asked to share insights on influential New Yorkers whose work helped shape our nation and advance human rights. With an audience of seasoned historians expected, the Committee carefully considered how to contribute meaningfully without retracing familiar ground.

From that reflection grew a passion project: New York State Untold Stories. Over several months, the Committee undertook extensive research and collaboration to illuminate lesser-known individuals whose impact helped define both our communities and our country. These stories were compiled and organized by century in a digital flipbook, which serves as a living record that honors the individuals and communities whose voices and impact deserve recognition.

The mission was clear and essential:

“To tell the untold stories of the contributions and sacrifices women, people of color, the LGBTQ community, the Jewish community, and people with disabilities have made in the development of our nation.”