LeClara Gilreath has an MBA and an MA. She attended the University of Nebraska-

Lincoln and is a native of Omaha. She is one of the few African American historians

who deal with race issues. As we review the book The Roots of Justice: A History of

Race and Racism in Nebraska, we come to learn valuable parts of history that have

been left out of the History of Blacks in Nebraska. The History departments at post-

secondary institutions have painted a jade history of our contribution to this state and its

importance to move beyond the hero worship of the same old trivial data and more into

social justice and significant accomplishment to carve out our existence in this racist

and apartheid state. The Nebraska Historical Society has many articles that are beyond

the reach of folks who don’t know how to avoid stereotypical recitation. Le Clara will

share her interest and what it takes to conduct research on Black History in a state with

a hostile academic climate.

Conducting Research in Hostile Environments

By MORE: Movement in Omaha for Racial Equity