Welcome to The African American Experience!

Through years of extensive genealogical research, historical documentation, and the remarkable power of DNA testing, the descendants of Joe and Jenny McLean have embarked on an extraordinary journey of rediscovery, bringing together family members separated by generations, geographical distances, and the painful legacy of slavery. What began as a search to uncover our ancestral roots has blossomed into an inspiring story of family reunification, cultural restoration, and the preservation of a remarkable legacy. Today, hundreds of DNA connections have been identified, stretching from North Carolina to California and across the Atlantic Ocean to Nigeria, where our family's ancestral heritage has been traced to the Igbo people of West Africa.

This incredible journey has accomplished far more than reconnecting names on a family tree. It has reunited relatives, restored long-lost family relationships, and strengthened a shared sense of identity, pride, and belonging. One of the most meaningful milestones in this journey has been our family's participation in the Annual Igbo Festival and Traditional Naming Ceremony, a powerful cultural celebration that reconnects descendants with the traditions, customs, and spiritual heritage of their African ancestors. Between 2023 and 2025, a total of 263 descendants of Joe and Jenny McLean proudly participated in the Igbo Naming Ceremony, receiving traditional Igbo names and embracing a cultural heritage that slavery attempted to erase but could never destroy.

The story of Joe and Jenny McLean is more than a family history—it is a living testimony to resilience, perseverance, unity, and the enduring strength of ancestral connections. Through continued research, DNA discoveries, family gatherings, and cultural celebrations, we are rebuilding the branches of a family tree that once seemed forever divided. As we honor those who came before us, we remain committed to preserving their stories, celebrating their legacy, and ensuring that future generations will always know who they are, where they came from, and the extraordinary ancestors whose lives made their own possible.

The Harnett County African American Heritage Center proudly announces the 2025 Harnett County Trailblazer Awards Ceremony, took place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Harnett County Commons Building, located at 309 W. Cornelius Harnett Blvd., Lillington, NC.

The Harnett County Trailblazer Awards are presented to individuals and organizations who have made a significant and lasting impact on the African American community of Harnett County through leadership, advocacy, education, civic engagement, cultural preservation, and community service. These honorees have set an enduring example for future generations by breaking barriers, uplifting communities, and paving the way for progress.

The Harnett County African American Heritage Center proudly announces its 2nd Annual Trailblazer Awards Juneteenth Celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring individuals, churches, organizations, and community leaders whose work has made a lasting impact throughout Harnett County and surrounding communities.

The celebration tookeplace on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Harnett County Commons. This special Juneteenth event will commemorate African American freedom, resilience, culture, leadership, and community excellence while recognizing local trailblazers who continue to inspire future generations.

The Harnett County African American Heritage Center proudly announces its 2nd Annual Trailblazer Awards Juneteenth Celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring individuals, churches, organizations, and community leaders whose work has made a lasting impact throughout Harnett County and surrounding communities. The celebration will take place on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Harnett County Commons. This special Juneteenth event will commemorate African American freedom, resilience, culture, leadership, and community excellence while recognizing local trailblazers who continue to inspire future generations.Trailblazer Awards 2025