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RootsTech 2025: A Gathering of Generations

The anticipation is palpable as the world's largest gathering for genealogy enthusiasts, RootsTech, kicks off in Salt Lake City, Utah, and virtually at RootsTech.org. This year, the event runs from March 6 to March 8, 2025, under the inspiring theme of “Discover”. The focus this year is to harness technology and innovation to connect families across time and space, bridging the past with the present to shape the future.

Steve Rockwood, CEO of FamilySearch, the main organizer of RootsTech and a prominent genealogy platform, opened the conference with profound insights. He emphasized how understanding our familial connections alters our perceptions and interactions with one another. Rockwood stated, "When we discover how we are connected, we treat each other differently," setting a tone of unity and shared discovery that resonates throughout the event.

The technology showcased at RootsTech reflects significant advancements in genealogy over the past century, particularly in the last decade. This development serves to empower participants in their quest to uncover their roots. Rockwood highlights the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and its role in genealogy, promising real-world applications and tools to enhance the discovery experience. Attendees can expect methods that facilitate the digitization and searchability of historical records, making family histories more accessible than ever before.

RootsTech 2025 offers an array of sessions tailored for both experienced genealogists and newcomers. More than hundreds of classes are available, presented in over 40 languages, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The event encourages hands-on interaction and learning through workshops and engaging activities designed to inspire all levels of family history enthusiasts. Attendees can explore the expo hall to discover the latest products and innovations in genealogy that Rockwood alluded to.

With participation soaring, RootsTech has set records this year with registration numbers exceeding previous years, anticipating around 15,000 to 20,000 in-person attendees alongside millions online. According to Jonathan Wing, the director of RootsTech, people from over 230 countries and territories will join the conference, reflecting an immense global enthusiasm for family history.

Adding to the excitement are this year’s keynote speakers, which include notable personalities such as Ndaba Mandela, the granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, renowned artist Dana Tanamachi, Olympic gold medalists Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall, and Emmy award-winning singer-songwriter Rachel Platten. These speakers will share their personal stories and unique insights, enriching the experience for attendees.

Another highlight of the event is the Family Discovery Day on Saturday, March 8, which is a free event designed for families of all ages. It features live music, interactive activities, and heartfelt talks from church leaders like Elder Neil L. Andersen and his wife, Kathy, who will convey messages about accessing temple blessings and family history. The session promises a personal touch as Elder Andersen takes attendees on a virtual journey to his childhood dairy farm.

RootstTech is not just a conference; it's a community where attendees forge connections and create new familial ties. Last year alone, participants made over 350 million new family connections, proving that the desire to discover our ancestry and connect with our roots is wired into our very beings. As Elder Kevin S. Hamilton remarked, the urge to connect and belong is an integral part of human nature, and RootsTech allows us to explore and celebrate that bond.

As the event unfolds, the vibrant atmosphere is sure to foster a sense of belonging and discovery that will resonate with everyone involved. From enlightening talks and innovative tools to heartfelt connections, RootsTech 2025 is a testament to the lasting impact of family history on our lives.

The future of genealogy looks brighter than ever as technology and community come together, enabling us to discover the rich tapestry of our ancestry. This inspirational gathering reinforces the importance of family, heritage, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us all together.