By Selim Kuru
Dr. Melike Yücel-Koc offers a compelling course titled “Oral History of Immigrants from the Middle East” through the University of Washington Honors Program. This interdisciplinary course enables students to explore the lived experiences of Middle Eastern immigrants through oral history, focusing on personal narratives that illuminate migration, identity, and cultural adaptation in the U.S.
Approximately 20-25 Honors students enroll in the course each year, representing a variety of majors including history, sociology, political science, journalism, and pre-professional tracks like medicine and law. This diversity fosters rich discussions, bringing multifaceted perspectives to the study of immigration and oral history methodologies.
Central to the course is the Turkey in Seattle Oral History Project (Turkey in Seattle Oral History Project), an initiative spearheaded by Dr. Yücel-Koc. This ongoing project documents the experiences of Turkish immigrants and their families living in the Seattle area, preserving their narratives for future generations. The project offers a localized lens on broader Middle Eastern migration patterns, providing insights into the unique challenges and contributions of Turkish immigrants in the Pacific Northwest. Since its launch, the Turkey in Seattle Oral History Project has grown into a vital repository of personal accounts, highlighting stories of resilience, cultural preservation, and community building.
Students actively contribute to the project by conducting interviews, transcribing conversations, and analyzing the collected oral histories. They learn practical skills in qualitative research, including interview techniques and archival processes, while gaining an intimate understanding of the complexities of migration and identity. By incorporating the Turkey in Seattle Oral History Project, the course extends its reach beyond the classroom, fostering meaningful connections between students and Seattle’s immigrant communities. This engagement not only enriches the students’ educational experience but also amplifies the voices of Turkish and Middle Eastern immigrants, ensuring their stories are heard and valued.
This innovative course exemplifies our Department’s commitment to global awareness and interdisciplinary learning, while celebrating the diverse cultural fabric of Seattle.