The stories of Turkish guest workers in The Netherlands
▶Summary
The project aimed to uncover an untold narrative, linking the Turkish community in the Netherlands with those in Turkey through student-led exploration of migration stories. It sought to enhance h...
▶Objectives
The project aimed to uncover an untold narrative, linking the Turkish community in the Netherlands with those in Turkey through student-led exploration of migration stories. It sought to enhance historical understanding while fostering research and communication skills. Anticipated outcomes included a strengthened sense of community, bridging historical contexts between Turkey and the Netherlands. Tangible results, such as student research and multimedia, featured in three exhibitions, with a lasting online presence. The project aimed to forge enduring connections between the Haarlem museum and Turkish visitors. Educationally, it integrated migration into curricula of the schools in Sakarya and Haarlem, offering students lasting experiences. Importantly, the project aspired to set a precedent for similar initiatives across Europe.
▶Activities
The project involved 6 key activities: Preliminary Investigation: Two Museum Haarlem employees traveled to Turkey, meeting school staff, and initiating discussions about the project. They explored the area of origin of Turkish guest workers, collecting material for exhibitions in both the Netherlands and Turkey. Collecting material and Exhibition Preparation: Students in Sakarya and Haarlem delved into the subject through preparatory classes, creating photos and videos. Cross-Border Visit and Cultural Exchange: A delegation from Haarlem visited Sakarya, and the other way around. Engaging in cultural exchange, exploring exhibitions, and understanding the community in the country they visited. Presentation and Project Conclusion: Experiences and findings from both countries were incorporated into a digital presentation, added to the Museum Haarlem exhibition. Dissemination and Future Engagement: Attention was given to disseminating project experiences and results. A digital application in three languages facilitated sharing with museums and schools interested in similar projects. And of course there where administrative activities included like financial management, reporting, data collection, and periodic reviews.
▶Impact
Concrete outputs materialized in the form of oral history interviews, capturing the nuanced migration experiences of Turkish guest workers. Exhibitions, collaboratively developed and displayed in a museum, a secondary schools, and a private university in Sakarya (Turkey) became tangible expressions of this project. The initiative left an indelible mark on the participating students, enhancing their research and communication skills and strengthening connections that transcended geographical boundaries. Ultimately, the project succeeded in elevating awareness of migration's historical context, creating a space for cultural exchange, and fostering communication.