Washington State Jewish Historical Society Launches Updated Hear O’Washington Oral History Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 16, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Hannah Peters, Deputy Director, Washington State Jewish Historical Society 206-558-3866 or hannahp@wsjhs.org

Seattle, WA – The Washington State Jewish Historical Society (WSJHS) is proud to announce the release of its newly expanded and revitalized oral history program, Hear O’Washington. This innovative initiative preserves the diverse voices and lived experiences of Jewish individuals and communities throughout Washington State.

With new tools for access, recording, and engagement, Hear O’Washington provides
opportunities for people of all ages to share personal narratives, family legacies, and community histories—from immigration and resilience to celebration, culture, and identity. The program includes training modules for volunteers to learn how to conduct oral histories, edit transcriptions, and support our engagement with the community at various events.

“As a passionate community member and WSJHS Deputy Director, I believe our greatest strength is in the stories we preserve,” said Hannah Peters, Deputy Director of WSJHS. “Hear O’Washington ensures  that our lived experiences and legacies aren’t lost, but instead passed forward with dignity, power, and pride.” 

The WSJHS has been documenting, preserving, and sharing Jewish history in Washington since 1968.  Hear O’Washington builds on that foundation with new technology and outreach strategies to expand whose stories are told and how they are collected. 

“Our stories are the heart of our history,” said Lisa Kranseler, Executive Director of WSJHS. “With Hear O’Washington, we’re not just preserving memories—we’re making history come alive and empowering every individual to be a storyteller.”

Hear O’Washington invites individuals, families, educators, and organizations to take part in this important work of historical preservation and storytelling. To learn more or get involved, please visit www.wsjhs.org or email info@wsjhs.org

Washington State Jewish Historical Society’s mission is to preserve and present the history of  Jewish life in Washington State. The Society fosters awareness and appreciation of the experiences,  the diverse culture, and the significant contributions of Jews, past and present. We build bridges with communities by sharing the stories of our collective histories and serving as an educational resource. For more information, please visit www.wsjhs.org.