Unveiling identities through Polish Chicago's time capsule

In the heart of Polish Chicago’s history lies an often-overlooked treasure trove: home movies and oral narratives from the pre-digital era. With the support of Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, the Not-So-Ordinary project uncovers these hidden reels, aiming to trace the intricate tapestry of migrant and diaspora identities. By juxtaposing personal narratives with home movies, the project sheds light on the profound stories woven within seemingly mundane footage and empowers underrepresented communities. Despite being focused on the Polish diaspora's evolution in Chicago, this endeavour goes beyond boundaries. It delves into transnational micro-histories, media archaeology, and cultural anthropology while providing invaluable insights for researchers across social sciences and humanities. With collaborative expertise, the Not-So-Ordinary project redefines history, frame by frame.