Everything on an оберіг (oberig) represents something different.  An oberig is a small replica of an ancient Ukrainian hut, The word itself means guardian.  Its decorated with small clay figurines such as little potts and little people, and also with beans and seeds.  My family story about this object starts with when my parents were about to immigrate to America and as a leaving gift my grandma gave them an oberig.  Oberigs, or guardians, are made out of straw, and covered with multiple things, each with their own bringing of something good such as, Nuts and herbs meaning good health, and ears of rye and oats that symbolize charms of beauty. The whole overall meaning of this object is to protect the house and the family.  This small hut in each Ukrainians house connects them to the everlasting memory of their ancestors. Our grandma, who gave it to us, still lives in Ukraine. We feel even more connected since there is a war there now and this is one of the only things she gave us. 

– Nicole

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant