The histories in this project are not the kind that is taught in school, or appear in textbooks. Rather, it’s a more personal perspective, one that highlights the emotional, lived experiences of individuals and their families. In history classes, the themes that we explore, like immigration or war, often prioritize a more comprehensive understanding while overlooking the more nuanced stories that shape people's lives. I hope to fill those gaps by challenging what we consider “relevant” history. To me, the personal impact of an event is just as important as its larger context. The stories in the Asian American Decentralized Museum deserve to be remembered alongside the larger historical narratives.
About the Archivist
Nico Brenner is a 16 year old Junior at Scarsdale High School in Westchester, New York. He recently joined the Localized History Project in the fall of 2024 as a member of the Youth Action Board. Initially inspired by his experience recording oral histories with his grandmother, Nico is passionate about amplifying Asian American voices and hopes to make a meaningful impact through community based storytelling. Outside of research, Nico enjoys staying active, whether it’s through playing varsity football, going to the gym, or playing basketball with friends.
Credits
Nico Brennar