Q: What protections do I have as a historian who interviews former and existing KKK members from the Civil Rights Era?

A: Here are a few key considerations for historians interviewing former and existing KKK members from the Civil Rights Era:

- As with any interview subject, obtain informed consent and make sure they understand how the interview will be used. Explain your project goals and how their perspectives fit into the overall historical narrative you are constructing.

- Protect their anonymity if requested. Use pseudonyms instead of real names if they do not want to be identified. This may make some more willing to share their experiences openly.

- Be aware of your safety. If meeting in person, consider having another historian present and meet in a public space. Also understand the legal risks if they disclose information about crimes they committed.

- Remember your role is to document history, not necessarily condone their views. You can challenge or probe discriminatory perspectives respectfully while still capturing their viewpoint.

- Balance spotlighting their experiences while ensuring you represent the larger societal context, including the perspectives of victims and civil rights activists working for equality at the time. Provide appropriate framing so their words are not taken out of historical context.

- Consult with other historians who have conducted similar interviews for advice on best practices, ethical considerations, and ensuring rigorous standards are upheld.

The key is to approach the interview professionally and ethically, focused on documenting an important chapter in American history, while not legitimizing any discrimination or criminal activity they may have engaged in. Handled carefully, these interviews can provide valuable primary source insights.