Mission Statement:
The African Scientific Research Institute (ASRI) aims to advance, coordinate, and execute research on African American cultural and public policy matters in historical and contemporary rural settings. ASRI functions as an incubator to stimulate recognition and economic advancement in rural areas.
Current and Previous Humanities Work:
In 2006, ASRI began collaborating with the Parks/Promiseland communities in St. Martinville, Louisiana. In 2014, ASRI launched the Promiseland Heritage Development Project, initiating the “Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Delta Trails” endeavor. This cultural heritage tourism initiative offers an innovative platform for eco-tourism and entrepreneurship, serving as a model for similar projects.
Historic Places Significance:
The historic locations listed above hold significant cultural and historical importance to the modern-day community. These places are crucial to understanding the region’s growth and history, and their preservation is essential for future generations.
Full Project Description:
The “Southeast Missouri Delta Heritage Project” is a dual-faceted initiative aimed at fostering economic progress in the Sikeston/Hayti, Missouri communities. This project involves excavating and restoring identified gravesites of African American progenitors through an archaeological field school. Local residents will be engaged to narrate the region’s stories and serve as a means of elucidating these stories via eco-tourism.
Eco-Tourism:
The targeted communities of Sikeston and Hayti present an ideal backdrop for cultivating national interest. This area epitomizes stark historical contrasts and will leverage tourism as the cornerstone for economic growth and small business entrepreneurship.
Archaeological Field School:
An on-site field school will provide hands-on experiences for students, focusing on researching regional African Progenitor burial sites. The field school’s objectives include developing a robust educational curriculum, organizing workshops, expanding internship opportunities, and fostering collaboration between preservation organizations, university programs, and local residents.
