I've been passionate about family history for many years. Unfortunately, acquiring the information I need to trace back my roots has become an extreme financial burden. Like me, there are numerous individuals worldwide who share an equal thirst for knowledge about their lineage but are hindered by the prohibitive costs. Ancestry, an organization that holds a vast store of genealogical records, currently restricts access to this data behind a costly paywall.

In 2019, there were an estimated 85 million avid genealogists in the United States alone (Abundant Genealogy). This number represents a large community that is being largely dismissed in their pursuit of knowledge due to economic barriers. Family history is personal and often an essential part of one's identity. No one should have to pay an exorbitant fee to learn about their heritage and ancestors.

With this petition, we are urging the relevant authorities to require Ancestry to provide free access to the records that rightfully belong to our family lines. By doing so, we can democratize genealogical research, make it accessible to all, and help millions discover their origins without the need to come up with a hefty sum.

Help us unshackle family history. Sign this petition to advocate for free access to genealogical records.