Stories We Carry

Join us for two special evenings with the community storytellers featured in Belongings: What We Bring, What We Leave Behind. Through family heirlooms, treasured keepsakes, photographs, letters, and everyday belongings, participants will share the deeply personal stories that bring the exhibition to life.

Hear firsthand reflections on migration, identity, resilience, family, and the meaning of home. These intimate conversations offer a rare opportunity to connect directly with the individuals whose voices and objects are featured throughout the exhibition, creating space for dialogue, empathy, and shared understanding.

Following the storytelling program, continue the conversation while exploring the exhibition and enjoying light refreshments.

Free Admission
Light refreshments will be served.
RSVP is recommended.

Stories We Carry is presented as part of Belongings: What We Bring, What We Leave Behind, on view September 4–October 4, 2026, at the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum. The exhibition explores migration, memory, and belonging through the meaningful objects and personal stories that connect us across generations and cultures.

Belongings: What We Bring, What We Leave Behind is made possible through the generous support of California Humanities through its Connecting California grant program. We are also deeply grateful to our community partners and sponsors, including the North Bay Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition, Sonoma County Japanese American Citizens League, Petaluma Arts Center, Life on Art, Zimbabwe Cultural Exchange Project of California, El Día de los Muertos Petaluma, Bolca Avia, Chelsea Antiques, Café Puente, Rustic Bakery, Quality Inn Petaluma, and all of the organizations, volunteers, artists, and community members whose collaboration has brought this exhibition to life.