Ukrainian Canadian professor explains the value of oral history

By Ry Clarke - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on October 8, 2022.

Herald photo by Ry Clarke Natalia Khanenko-Friesen speaks about oral history and the importance of moral responsibility Wednesday at the Galt Museum.

The Galt Museum and Archives hosted Natalia Khanenko-Friesen on Wednesday for a talk on oral history and moral responsibilities.

A professor of Modern Languages and Cultural Studies at the University of Alberta, Khanenko-Friesen spoke on her previous work with students called “Oral History of 20th Street” where over the course of thee academic years they interviewed 40 people in the neighbourhood of 20th Street in Saskatoon, Sask.

Speaking about the importance of the project to categorize the history of the collective of people who lived there, Khanenko-Friesen said she and her students were hoping to understand the diversity and evolution of the neighbourhood.

“It is a community of multiple presences of different cultural preferences,” said Khanenko-Friesen.

As a Ukrainian Canadian, Khanenko-Friesen hoped to discuss with audience members the bigger issues that were amplified by her project.

“I proposed to reflect on my career teaching and my efforts to work towards Truth and Reconciliation and to teach to embrace that new path we are all in as Canadians to rebuild Canada,” said Khanenko-Friesen.

Khanenko-Friesen says she has always had a fascination with oral history, saying she was born curious.

“I always wanted to hear other people’s stories. As children we have a luxury of being surrounded by family or neighbours who are talkative and reflective,” said Khanenko-Friesen. “That childhood experience of listening to elders in my community back in Ukraine triggered my sense of curiosity. I went on to pursue a career in anthropology, folklore, always wanting to interview people.”

Her work on 20th Street had a new experience for academic students, helping to teach the importance of oral history.

“We worked towards a goal of gathering collective stories and how a small space can have a diversity of culture,” said Khanenko-Friesen. “When we listen, we could be in whatever location and there are people with opportunities to learn about local culture, have meaningful experiences. I ask people to listen and cultivate the desire to explore new places through stories.”