Common Ground was formed in August 1995. The purpose of this grass-roots organization is to promote communication and understanding and improve relations among people of all races in Davidson. The following interviews and meeting records chronicle the work of Common Ground and the challenges they worked to overcome. To learn more about Common Ground please review the maunscript collection, DC056: Common Ground Records, 1995-2003.

The following updates to the scope & contents was written by Colby Katz, an NCCU graduate student, on 04/18/24 Version 1

Common Ground (1995-2003) was a grass-roots organization that aimed to promote communication and understanding and improve relations among people of all races in Davidson.

This oral history collection contains interviews conducted with men and women who lived in the town of Davidson and was recorded by the Common Ground organization. The recordings provide insight into the complexities of race relations and racism in Davidson, NC, and at Davidson College during the 20th century by addressing historical legacies, institutional dynamics and influence, socio-economic disparities, systemic racism, racial oppression, segregation, and discrimination. Additionally, the interviewees reflect on community initiatives, town development, and the drastic changes to the landscape of downtown Davidson that they witnessed.

To learn more about Common Ground, please review the manuscript collection, DC056: Common Ground Records, 1995-2003

Version 2

Common Ground (1995-2003) was a grass-roots organization whose purpose was to promote communication and understanding and improve relations among people of all races in Davidson.

This collection of oral historical interviews, conducted by Common Ground, features accounts from individuals of various racial backgrounds (likey just white & Black) who resided in Davidson. Their stories offer perspectives on the intricate dynamics of race relations and racism within Davidson as well as Davidson College throughout the 20th century. The themes explored include historical legacies, institutional dynamics and influence, socio-economic disparities, racial oppression, segregation, implicit bias, intersectional discrimination, and discrimination. In addition, the interviewees offer reflective insight on now-defunct community initiatives, municipal development endeavors, and the notable transformations they witnessed in the landscape of downtown Davidson.

To learn more about Common Ground, please review the manuscript collection, DC056: Common Ground Records, 1995-2003