This theme’s essay discusses the importance of oral storytelling in preserving family history and cultural traditions and the challenges involved in preserving stories through history. Often passed down through generations, oral storytelling is vulnerable to loss
due to disasters, neglect, or intentional destruction. However, the preservation of stories – in any form -- is also influenced by cultural, legal, and political factors. Two examples include the stories of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the New World or the use of the atomic bomb in World War II raise questions about whose narratives are prioritized and preserved. They also include debates about monuments and historical records, influenced by shifting cultural attitudes and political correctness. Beyond this, the essay discusses how technology impacts the preservation of stories and how economic inequality further complicates access to storytelling and preservation, highlighting the need for more equitable solutions to ensure the survival of diverse narratives.
