We are pleased to announce that a special exhibit of documentary portraits by Northampton photographer Nikki Gardner will be showcased in the Center Church’s Chapel. “Giving Voice: Immigrants share their stories” is a documentary portrait and audio storytelling project that delves into the realities of immigrants who have built new lives in this region. Recorded stories from “Giving Voice” will be interspersed with live stories during the 25 hours of Our Roots, Our Voices. The project was developed in 2024 with grant funding from Northampton Arts Council and Northampton Open Media through collaboration with nine participants who relocated to the Pioneer Valley.

Those signed up to tell their stories range from Gen Z college students to members of the Post War Generation members, as well as Millenials, Gen X, and Boomers. Each American story offers a different perspective on life in our country. 

South Hadley historian Leo LaBonte will share his personal story on Friday night, as well as segments on Saturday about those who used to live in our area. Stan Prager, an historian with an interest in the intersection of history and technology, will share a story he has been researching about a Massachusetts resident.