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Online Event: Do the Right Thing

Navigating Ethics & Standards in Genetic Genealogy

Every family tree has its share of surprises. This session will guide you through the Genetic Genealogy Standards and offer practical strategies for navigating sensitive discoveries with integrity, empathy, and respect. Presented by Jennifer Zinck CG^®. Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants within 24 hours of the event start time. For more information, please contact 305-375-5572 or email specialcollections@mdpls.org. Ages 18 yrs.+

Presented by the Special Collections & Archives Division of the Miami-Dade Public Library System, located at the Main Library.

About the Program

Every family tree has its share of surprises—some joyful, others deeply complex. As we explore our genetic past, we may uncover long-held secrets, unexpected connections, or ethical dilemmas. This session will guide you through the Genetic Genealogy Standards and offer practical strategies for navigating sensitive discoveries with integrity, empathy, and respect. Learn how to prepare for the unexpected and uphold the highest ethical standards in your research.

About the Presenter

Jennifer Zinck is a genealogical researcher, writer, editor, and educator with a passion for uncovering family histories and making complex research accessible to all. She holds the Certified Genealogist^® credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists and specializes in DNA evidence and New England research. 

Jennifer was a member of the ad hoc Genetic Genealogy Standards Committee, which introduced the standards to the genealogical community in Salt Lake City in January 2015. She is deeply committed to ethical research practices and is dedicated to uplifting and educating fellow genealogists. Jennifer strives to foster a community that values both historical accuracy and the responsible use of genetic discoveries. She is thrilled to share her expertise and help others navigate the ever-evolving world of genetic genealogy.

About the Special Collections and Archives Division

The Miami-Dade Public Library System’s Special Collections & Archives Division preserves and provides access to rare and historically significant materials for the public and scholarly community. Its diverse holdings include the Helen Muir Florida Collection, the 16mm Film Collection, the Cuban Collection of Rare Books & Ephemera, the Genealogy Collection, and rare and antiquarian books dating back to the 17th century. The Division also manages the Library’s Permanent Art Collection, which features over 7,000 works displayed across library locations, and The Vasari Project, dedicated to documenting Miami-Dade County’s art history since 1945. Committed to accessibility, it offers materials for viewing and research both in person and online through the Digital Collection, which includes more than 40 freely accessible collections, featuring materials from the Library as well as contributions from outside collaborators and partner institutions. Spanning rare books, manuscripts, photographs, prints, paintings, sculptures, artifacts, audiovisual resources, and electronic media, these collections ensure that Miami-Dade County’s rich history, artistic legacy, and cultural heritage remain available to all.

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