The Yakima Valley Museum is inviting the community to a special reception for its latest exhibit, “Our Stories, Our Lives: Photos of Migrant Labour in the Yakima Valley by Irwin Nash.” The event will take place on March 13, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., offering attendees a chance to explore this compelling visual documentation of agricultural workers’ experiences. The evening will feature food, live music, and a presentation, providing deeper insight into the significance of the exhibit.
The exhibit showcases 46 powerful photographs taken by renowned photographer Irwin Nash between 1967 and 1976, depicting the lives, struggles, and resilience of migrant labourers in the Yakima Valley. These images highlight the realities of farmworkers who played a crucial role in the region’s agricultural history, capturing moments of both hardship and community strength. The collection is part of a larger archive of over 9,400 images, which have been recently digitized by Washington State University Libraries’ Manuscripts, Archives, and Special Collections to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Since its unveiling, the exhibit has ignited conversations within the local community, encouraging individuals to reflect on their own family histories and experiences related to migrant labour. Many have come forward to share personal stories, further enriching the historical narrative and shedding light on the often-overlooked contributions of these workers.
The reception is free and open to the public, making it an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts, students, and community members to engage with the exhibit. However, attendees are encouraged to RSVP through the Yakima Valley Museum website to secure their spot.
For those who cannot attend the event, the exhibit will remain on display until June 2025, allowing visitors ample time to explore this impactful collection.