Home » Oral History Series

Oral History Series

Voices of Freedom and Resilience

Purpose

The Freedom Center has launched an Oral History Collection as a dynamic resource to help schools prepare students to become civically responsible and knowledgeable adults. Approved by the Arizona State Board of Education, this collection includes three mini-documentaries that showcase compelling first-person accounts comparing other governing philosophies with those of the United States. These stories provide valuable insights into the principles of patriotism, freedom, and governance through the lived experiences of individuals from around the world.

These powerful stories in the Oral History Collection provide students with a deeper understanding of the principles of governance and freedom, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and appreciation for the opportunities afforded by democratic systems.

Featured Perspectives

The University of Arizona Freedom Center and Arizona Center for Judaic Studies hosted Holocaust survivor Hanna Zack Miley for a special event featuring a screening of her oral history, a fireside chat, and an audience Q&A. Now available as part of the Freedom Center’s Oral History Series, viewers can watch Miley share her escape from Nazi Germany through the Kindertransport, the sacrifice of her parents, and her journey of survival and forgiveness. Her story is inspiring and exemplifies the reality of survival and the lasting effects of war.

Watch Hannah Miley’s Inspiring Story Here!

Watch Rep Quang Nguyen’s Documentary Here!

This entry in the Freedom Center’s Oral History Series features a firsthand account of life under communism and the deep appreciation for freedom in the United States. The speaker reflects on the sacrifices of the Founding Fathers, the stark realities of communist rule, and the contrast between ideological support for communism and the lived experience of those who endured it. His story highlights the value of opportunity, personal freedom, and the importance of remembering history.

This documentary tells the powerful story of Sylwia Cavalcant, who grew up under Communist rule in Poland. Part of the Freedom Center’s Oral History Series, it offers a deeply personal look at life under constant surveillance, where speaking out came at great risk. Sylwia’s account reveals her family’s quiet struggle for democracy and the resilience that carried them through. Her story is a moving reminder of the sacrifices made for the freedoms we often take for granted

Watch Sylvia Cavalcant’s Documentary Here!

Watch the Toma Family’s Documentary Here!

This documentary shares the powerful story of a family’s escape from Communist Romania and their fight for a new life in America. Through their memories, viewers gain insight into the struggles of living under an oppressive regime and the risks they took to find freedom. Their journey wasn’t easy, but through resilience and faith, they built a future they never thought possible. Their story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder of why freedom matters.