Belongings: What we bring, what we leave behind.
Language
  • English (US)
  • Arabic‬‎
  • Chinese
  • Haitian Creole
  • Japanese
  • Khmer
  • Nepali
  • Persian
  • Spanish (Latin America)
  • Thai
  • Vietnamese
  • Lao

  • Exhibit and Program (September 2026)

  • What did you bring? What did you leave behind?

    We invite you to share a meaningful belonging and the story it carries—something like a first work uniform, a family photo, a recipe, a letter, a child’s toy, a document, or an object you’ve held onto across time and place.

    Your safety and comfort are our priority. You may enter anonymously. No experience needed—everyone is welcome, and storytelling support (including translation and interpretation) is available.

    Tell us about yourself, share a photo of your object, and why it matters to you. If selected, the physical object will be needed for the exhibit.

    Deadline: July 1, 2026
    Honorarium: $50 (up to 50 participants)

    At this time, submission is open by invitation only. While we value every story, not all submissions can be included in the final exhibit.

  • How would you like your name to appear in the exhibit?
  • Your age:

  • About your belonging

  • 0/350
  • Does your story fit one of the themes below? Choose "other" if unsure.
  • Would you like help telling your story? We can arrange a 15–30 minute phone or in-person conversation.
  • I understand that, if selected, my object will be exhibited from August 31 to October 4, 2026 (with a possible extension). We will contact you directly to arrange drop off.*
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  • Belongings Storytelling Evenings

    Held at the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum, these "Moth Radio Style" Saturday events feature Belongings storytellers. An MC guides the evening, followed by time to celebrate and connect over light refreshments.
  • As a storyteller or an audience member at the event, do you need an interpreter to participate?
  • Would you be willing to share your story at one of the in-person events? A zoom or in-person coaching session will be offered to help you prepare.
  • If yes, which Saturday evening would you like to tell your story at?

  • Consent and Signature

  • I confirm that this submission is my own or that I have permission to share it. I understand that selected works may be edited for clarity with my consent.*
  • Date:*
     - -

  • Honorarium

  • Participants may receive a $50 Visa gift card. Priority is given to those with financial need. You may also decline or donate it back to support the exhibition and programming.

  • Photo and Audio Permission

  • Please check all that apply:
  • Should be Empty: