(MURFREESBORO)  For the first time in its 10-year history, RootsTech will be entirely virtual and completely free to the entire world. RootsTech Connect will be held this coming Thursday through Saturday (February 25-27, 2021). With more than 200,000 people registered and representing every country around the globe, this will be the largest RootsTech conference since the event began in 2011.

RootsTech, considered to be the largest family history conference in the world, is hosted by FamilySearch, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to helping all people discover their family story.

Murfreesboro's Tennessee Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Joseph S. Pennington said, “This is an incredible opportunity for our entire community. Understanding where we came from and the journey that each of our families have taken to arrive at this moment can have a transformative impact on our lives. At a time when so many are without, to be offered this experience for free, is a blessing to us all.”

This year, presenters will teach from international locations, and all experiences will be available in 11 languages.  Keynote speakers, including Mexican golfer Lorena Ochoa, Australian motivational speaker Nick Vujicic, Indian American actor Erick Avari, South African band Ladysmith Black Mambazo and former professional football players from Uruguay and Brazil. There will be nearly 2,000 classes offered in a variety of categories, including:

• Finding Living Relatives
• Finding Ancestors
• DNA
• Places, People, & Research
• Memories – Stories, Photos, Videos
• Traditions and Heritage
• Websites, Tools & Apps

Murfreesboro Stake Family History Center Director Shirley Arnell noted, “Knowing and sharing our family stories builds resilience in our children and strengthens family bonds. RootsTech opens doors to gathering and sharing family history. I was able to attend the 10th RootsTech conference in Salt Lake City last year and it was remarkable. This year we have the unique opportunity to join with others throughout the world in this first-time ever virtual event of a RootsTech convention within the safety of our homes.  And better yet, its completely FREE!!” 

In addition to classes, there will also be a virtual Expo Hall. Companies and vendors from around the world will be helping users make personal and family discoveries through a dynamic and interactive expo hall experience. Users will be able to see the latest in new product demonstrations in a virtual demo theater, get hands-on instruction and receive personal assistance.

Complimentary registration is available at RootsTech.org.

Additional Information are found in the RootsTech Fact Sheet at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tgUtd2ux145vtc9UQr1IFd-i8l1AOfyV/view?usp=sharing 

RootsTech speakers map at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FjAYEiE2U2HiuJSlpvvBx4subZ-sqKh0/view?usp=sharing