The South Asian American Digital Archive (SAADA) is a nonprofit organization working to document the rich histories of South Asians in the United States and preserve the community's stories for future generations.
SAADA is putting the call out for stories from South Asian Americans about their first day in the United States. The First Days Project captures poignant narratives from the lives of new immigrants through a snapshot of one day -- the excitement, nervousness, loss, humor, sadness, anticipation, confusion, and everything else that happens when one arrives in a new country.
First Day stories will be accepted through July 31 and can be submitted as video, audio or text. Here are some more details on what they're looking for:
Whose stories are you interested in?This is such a fantastic idea. They've already posted a bunch of stories, and they're awesome. My South Asian brothers and sisters, you or your family members have a story to share. For further information, and to submit a story, head over to the South Asian American Digital Archive.
We are collecting stories from individuals who trace their heritage to South Asia about their first day in the United States. We are interested in stories from those who came to the U.S. directly from South Asia (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) as well as the many South Asian diaspora communities across the globe (i.e. Trinidad, Guyana, Uganda, Australia, UK, Canada, etc.).
What time frame are you interested in?
We are looking for stories dating back as far as possible and as recently as this year.
What formats do you accept?
Stories can be submitted as video, audio or text. Video and audio can be up to 3 minutes long and text submissions are limited to 300 words. If you are submitting video, upload the file to Youtube or Vimeo and submit a link to us. Audio (as mp3, aiff, aac and wma) and text can be submitted directly through the SAADA website. If you are submitting audio or text we'd also love for you to submit a photo of yourself (either from the time of your first day or more recent).
Can I share someone else's story?
Yes, absolutely! We'd love for you to submit your own story or that of a family member or friend. If you are submitting a story on someone's behalf please be absolutely sure that they are aware that their story will be published on the SAADA website.