Preserving Memory, Promoting Understanding The Importance of Oral History in Combatting Antisemitism in the Middle East

Key Findings:

The 2,500 year old Mosuli Jewish community of Iraq faced persecution and forced migration during the 20th century, leaving it nearly extinct. Survivors of the community state that they fled after facing religious persecution, denial from certain jobs and professions, physical attacks, and discriminatory laws.

The author argues that documentation of oral history opens the doorway to reconciliation with the past and creates a path forward in the Middle East, as there are both Arab and Jewish communities that have faced harsh realities. Oral history documentation also acts to preserve the memory of said communities, their traditions, and their contribution to the history of the region.

Documenting the stories of these individuals and communities can prevent history from repeating itself, and for the affected Jewish communities in the Middle East, this also lends to a broader understanding of antisemitism in the region. The author suggests that the implementation of oral history documentation programs in the Middle East is essential.