Mission & Vision

The mission of the Central American Historical and Ancestral Society (CAHAAS) of California is to promote an understanding of Central America's rich and dynamic history, culture, and its people's contributions within and beyond its national borders through an easily accessible digital platform where stories, art, history, and culture can be collected, preserved, and shared with all and for generations to come. 

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CAHAAS links the past with the present by uprooting history through the curation of Central American artifacts, archival documentation, and historical photographs to shine a light on more inclusive and authentic stories that inspire and empower Central Americans. Our community digital archive includes a library of biography profiles, video oral histories, virtual art exhibits, stories, and web videos that capture the diverse narratives of the Central American experience.

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The driving force behind this educational platform and community-centered digital archive is to bridge the cultural knowledge gap that leads to biased narratives, stereotypes, racism and inequality. To close the gap on racial inequality means raising all voices within this group in the United States knowing the impacts of systemic racism and systemic inequities are experienced differently and on many different levels. We raise all voices to empower our communities and the public.

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With over 7 million Central Americans living in the United States and more worldwide, we envision an online platform that reaches audiences across the globe with thoughtful and critical representation of our community. In the future, we aspire to open CAHAAS chapters to serve local communities nationwide; each location would be focused on collecting, preserving, and sharing relevant Central American history and experiences that expand the national narrative and create a better shared future.