Memories and Milestones – SAAPRI’s Oral History Project

What is the Memories and Milestones: SAAPRI’s Oral History Project?

Memories and Milestones is SAAPRI’s groundbreaking oral history project that documents the untold stories of South Asian immigrants who came to Illinois between 1945 and 1965—decades before major immigration reform opened doors to broader South Asian migration. Launched in 2005 and completed in phases through 2009, this was the first project of its kind to capture the lived experiences of this pioneering generation.

Through interviews conducted by university students and younger family members, the project explored themes of race, gender, community-building, and homeland politics. It shed light on migration patterns, cultural barriers, and the institutions that supported early South Asian settlers. In later phases, SAAPRI expanded the project beyond the Chicago area to include voices from across Illinois, culminating in a traveling exhibit and a published narrative and photo archive.

With the passage of Illinois’ TEAACH Act—legislation SAAPRI actively advocated for—this collection now serves as a powerful educational tool to teach South Asian American history and preserve intergenerational knowledge.

Learn more about SAAPRI’s TEEACH Act advocacy

In 2009, SAAPRI published Our Immigrant Story: South Asians in Illinois, 1945–1965, a report showcasing highlights from the oral history collection.

  1. To read the full report, click here.
  2. Read an Executive Summary of how the oral histories were collected here

For Educators

Are you an educator interested in bringing South Asian American history into your classroom? SAAPRI’s Memories and Milestones project is a valuable resource aligned with the goals of the TEAACH Act.

Visit our South Asian History for Educators page to explore lesson ideas, classroom materials, and additional resources to help you teach these vital stories.

Support Our Work

The growth and continuation of this project depend on the support of community members like you. If you believe in the importance of preserving South Asian American history and uplifting intergenerational voices, we invite you to contribute. Your donation helps us expand this work, reach more classrooms, and ensure these stories are never forgotten.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

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