Immigration, specifically two waves that shaped Oregon a century apart, is the theme of the current exhibit at the

in Northwest Portland.

contrasts the arrival of Russian and Eastern European Jews in the early 1900s with the experience of contemporary immigrants from Burma, Cambodia, Congo, Cuba, Eritrea and Somalia.

Artifacts, photographs, audio and video reveal similarities and differences in the immigrants' struggles and triumphs. Organizers hope the exhibit will promote intercultural understanding and raise awareness about immigration and refugee status today.

The museum has planned two programs in conjunction with "Settling In."

"Storytelling Circle: Planes, Trains and Automobiles (and Ships)," with storyteller Cassandra Sagan, is at noon and 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 17. Everyone is invited to come and share part of his or her family or personal immigration story and bring artifacts, documents and photographs to share. The event is free to Oregon Jewish Museum members and costs $5 for others.

"Refusenik,"

"Settling In" runs through Sept. 29. Exhibition gallery hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday; and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for students and seniors and free to members and children under 12 who are accompanied by a parent or guardian. The museum is at 1953 N.W. Kearney St., Portland.

-– Nancy Haught