The Holyoke Ethnic Studies program is a vital aspect of the Holyoke Public Schools which provides students with the opportunity to learn about the world at large during a time when education is being confined to a single story. Holyoke’s Ethnic Studies Program seeks to empower all students to engage socially and politically and to think critically about the world around them. It is important for Ethnic Studies courses to document the experiences of people of color in order for students to construct counter narratives and see themselves reflected in their learning.

Over the summer, Holyoke Ethnic Studies partnered with Wistariahurst Museum and the UMass College of Education to employ Holyoke students to archive the important history of the Ethnic Studies program from 2013 to 2022. During the five weeks we collaborated with people that work with public art, education, historical research and more. These six young adults were given an opportunity to gain workplace skills, expand on their Ethnic Studies education, and connect with their community in new ways.

We invite you to Wistariahurst Museum for our opening night, October 6, 2023 from 5pm – 7pm, the youth archivists will be presenting on their project and unveiling their summer work in an exhibit titled “Shining Light on the Truth: Uncovering the Counter Narrative.” The exhibit will show the work that the youth archivists achieved. There will be music, fun activities and refreshments for the attendees. After opening night, the exhibit will be open during museum hours through October 14, 2023. Visit www.wistariahurst.org/events for more information. Follow us on Instagram and stay up to date on our exhibit! @YouthArchivistForSocialChange