Preserving Family Stories Through Oral HIstory

Join historian and archivist Thomas Fujii, founder of The Oral History Practice, for an engaging presentation on preserving family stories through oral history.
This talk will introduce attendees to the art and science of oral history, including what it is, why it matters, and how personal memories become valuable historical records. Participants will learn practical steps for planning an interview, asking meaningful questions, choosing simple recording equipment, and preserving audio and video files for future generations.
The presentation will also explore common challenges, such as not knowing what to ask, feeling unsure about technology, or navigating family dynamics, and offer a clear roadmap for getting started.
If time allows, the session will include a brief smartphone-based activity showing how attendees can begin capturing stories using the devices they already have.
Whether you are preserving a parent’s memories, documenting family history, or simply wondering where to begin, this session will help you take the first step with clarity and confidence.