Recently, I was teaching a lesson in seminary related to family history. As I began to prepare,

I started to feel unqualified to teach. After all, I still really don't know how to index,

but then I started to recall things I've learned from Roots Tech over the years about

what family history is all about. I realized I've actually done quite a bit of family history.

I'll never forget the first time I went to Roots Tech. This event is no joke. With amazing

speakers, classes, and a huge expo hall where you can try out the latest innovations, there's

no way that you don't walk away from Roots Tech feeling inspired, united, and excited about

your family's story. This year, Roots Tech, the world's largest family history event, is

back in person on March 2nd through the 4th at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City. It is one event I

have never regretted attending, and no matter your age or family history skill level, I think you'll

love it. In-person passes for all three days are only $98, or you can join virtually with

millions of others across the globe for free. Register now at Roots Tech.org.

In a recent LinkedIn post, Eric Engabretzin wrote,

Umberto speaks English as well as I do. He studied at an accredited American University just

like I have. So why have simple opportunities been kept from him that I've been afforded

my whole life? Umberto is from Venezuela, a country that's made headlines in recent years

for their economic collapse, unrest, and refugee crisis. In Umberto's own words, five years ago,

I had to leave my native country Venezuela because of the dictatorship, and I moved to Ecuador

looking for a better place to live and to be able to help my mother and my nephews. But no matter

how hard I have tried, doors have been increasingly close to me because of the xenophobia and discrimination,

which I have experienced as a refugee. Through these hard years, there have been few moments

of peace in the midst of the uncertainty of being away from the place that was my home

...