DAR Begins Accepting DNA Evidence
and
Launches New Online DNA Genealogy Class
Which is Open to the Public
Although no single DNA test can point to a specific ancestor, advances in the science and interpretation of DNA testing have placed the DAR in a position to begin accepting DNA evidence in a limited manner within the context of traditional genealogical evidence.
Many advances have been made in the testing and interpretation of DNA results for use as evidence in genealogical research, but the information is still very complex. With the new DAR policy, DNA test results can be used for evidence of lineage for DAR applications or supplemental applications, but specific criteria must be met. To help navigate how individuals can use DNA as a piece of evidence for a DAR application, the DAR is launching an online genealogy class “DNA and DAR.”
The “DNA and DAR” online course will provide an introduction to the basics of DNA and applying DNA to genealogical research along with the impact of DNA on the process of documenting a DAR application. The course will cover other topics such as guidelines for using DNA for DAR applications; case studies for determining whether DNA evidence is an appropriate avenue of research for a particular application and the steps you would take to take the test and how to interpret the results; along with specific instructions for submitting the application with the DNA report. The “DNA and DAR” online course is open for anyone to participate and costs $100. For more information and to enroll, visit the DAR Genealogical Education Program website.
DAR begins accepting Y-DNA evidence, effective January 1, 2014, in support of new member applications and supplemental applications. DNA evidence submitted along with other documentation will be considered along with all of the other source documentation provided to prove heritage. Y-DNA will not be considered as stand-alone proof of linage because, while it can be used as a tool to point to a family, it cannot be used as absolute proof for an individual. For those applicants wishing to submit DNA evidence as proof of lineage along with their other traditional proof documentation, they must submit Y-DNA test results from at least two test subjects following criteria outlined in the guidelines and test requirements for Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications.
Identifying the specific types of situations in which DNA can be accepted by the DAR, as well as the testing and reporting methods for the surrogate Y-DNA test subjects, are outlined in documents that can be found HERE
Additional information for members and the public to help them learn about this new policy for the DAR application process, including communications, educational materials, guidelines and procedures, can be found HERE
