Last updated: November 8, 2026
The Human Archive publishes true stories. This page explains how we decide what to publish and how we protect the people in those stories.
Truth and accuracy
- We publish first-hand accounts that the storyteller tells us are true.
- Editors read for consistency and plausibility, and may ask follow-up questions or for supporting context.
- Where a storyteller is recalling events from long ago, we say so. Memory is human.
- We do not invent details, composite characters or quotes. If names or details are changed to protect privacy, we note it.
Light editing, authentic voice
We edit for spelling, grammar, structure and clarity. We do not rewrite someone's voice. Storytellers approve the final version before publication.
Privacy and consent
- Storytellers choose a real name, first name or pseudonym.
- We change or remove identifying details on request.
- We avoid exposing private individuals who appear in a story and have not consented.
- Storytellers may ask us to remove or update their story at any time.
Sensitive subjects
For stories involving trauma, illness, abuse or loss we add content notes where helpful, avoid graphic detail, and never present a personal account as professional advice.
Independence from advertising
Advertisers have no influence over what we publish. Ads are labeled and kept separate from stories. See our Advertising Disclosure.
Corrections
If we get something wrong, we correct it quickly and note the change at the top of the story. Report errors at contact@vanlyra.com.
Who writes here
Stories come from our community of contributors and are reviewed by The Human Archive editorial team. Want to contribute? Share your story.