The two working papers showcased the development and progress achieved by the UAE
The National Library and Archives participates in the annual conference of the USA’s Oral History Association (OHA)

The National Library and Archives participated with two working papers in the fifty-sixth annual conference of the Oral History Association held in Los Angeles, USA, from October 19-22, 2022. The National Library and Archives is a member of the OHA and it has great interest in the oral narratives that complement the written records it preserves.

The National Library and Archives’ participation in the annual conference of the American Oral History Association included a working paper presented by Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Adviser, and another paper presented by Maitha Salman Al Zaabi, Head of the Oral History Department at the National Library and Archives.

The National Library and Archives is keen to participate in OHA’s annual conference; this year, it aimed at introducing researchers and participants to the UAE’s efforts to preserve the narratives that enrich the world library, enhance the value of the nation, increase understanding of civilization and heritage and the involved projects. Furthermore, it aspired to build bridges to exchange global experiences and learn about the best practices in oral history to impart honesty and distinction to it locally, regionally and globally.

In her working paper "Tales from Difficult Times: Oral Narratives from the UAE", Dr. Aisha Bilkhair illustrated the development, progress and prosperity that the United Arab Emirates witnessed in record time with the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, as well as the wise leadership’s approach of following in the footsteps of the founding fathers. She referred to the efforts of the UAE to preserve the memory of time and place, as the wise leadership is keen on preserving the history narrated by senior citizens, taking advantage of it, and compiling it in some publications that document the UAE’s history and heritage for posterity.

The paper sheds light on the Emirati society's aspects of dealing with life conditions, epidemics, climate fluctuations and other challenges. It also highlighted the emergence of a cooperative and interconnected society with values of tolerance and gender balance, and an identity branded by love of benevolence, giving and humanity.
In another session, the Head of the Oral History and Genealogical Studies Section at the National Library and Archives Maitha Salman Al-Zaabi presented a working paper entitled “The Oral History of the Al-Jazeera Al-Hamra Project,” in which she talked about the history of Al-Jazeera Al-Hamra, which is derived from primary historical sources and oral accounts indicating its most important landmarks. She also referred to the significance of the oral history in restoration and development processes, and the UAE's efforts to preserve its history.
It is noteworthy that the National Library and Archives is a member of the Oral History Association in USA, and it participates with working papers in the annual conferences attended by numerous academics and specialists in the various fields of the oral history, who come from the major universities of the USA and the world.