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Abstract

This article examines the systemic barriers within the National Register of Historic Places, established under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, that have contributed to the underrepresentation of marginalized communities in historic preservation. Despite the United States’ diverse cultural heritage, only an estimated 3% to 10% of sites listed on the National Register reflect histories associated with racial and ethnic minority groups. Through a qualitative analysis of legislative history, federal regulations, nomination processes, and governance structures, this study identifies how key criteria such as “significance” and “integrity” have reinforced exclusionary practices. These criteria consistently prioritize architectural and tangible heritage over lived experiences, cultural landscapes, and communal histories. Additionally, this research explores the role of State Historic Preservation Offices, federal decision-making bodies, and professional norms in shaping preservation outcomes, revealing systemic biases in leadership, funding distribution, and procedural accessibility. One critical limitation is the lack of comprehensive data collection and transparency, which hinders efforts to measure disparities and implement reforms. This article argues that addressing these structural inequities requires broadening definitions of significance, reconsidering integrity standards to reflect the realities of displacement and adaptation, increasing diversity in preservation leadership, and expanding financial and technical support for underrepresented communities. By critically examining legal frameworks and institutional practices, this study underscores the need for transformative reforms to ensure that historic preservation more equitably reflects and protects the full spectrum of American history.

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