Other Languages, Societies, and Cultures Commons^™

Espe Alegria: Cultural Advisor And Voice Of The Basques In American Radio, Erin Passehl

Library Faculty Publications and Presentations

This presentation will showcase Basque immigrant Espe Alegria (1906-1991), who spent her life preserving and promoting Basque language, culture, and identity in Boise, Idaho. Espe Alegria’s continuous work left a legacy on the American Diaspora in three areas: her work in radio broadcasting, translation and immigration services, and the arts. Espe hosted The Basque Program, a one-hour radio program that aired every week from 1955-1981. Known as the “Voice of the Basques,” Espe used her social connections to personalize the program in ways that connected with listeners in both cities and Basque-speaking sheepherders. This presentation will also look at Espe’s …