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StoryCorps ‘Brightness In Black’ To Document Black Experiences
The Podcast/Public Radio feature STORYCORPS, is launching a new three-year initiative called BRIGHTNESS IN BLACK. Its focus will be collecting stories to highlight the Black experience in AMERICA. Participants will have the option to archive their stories in the LIBRARY OF CONGRESS AMERICAN FOLKLIFE CENTER.
The initiative will work within local communities to document these stories, starting in PHILADELPHIA and ATLANTA, with four additional locations to be announced soon. This effort is being launched with financial support from MICHAEL JORDAN and the JORDAN BRAND’s Black Community Commitment.
JORDAN BRAND Pres. SARAH MENSAH said, “The JORDAN BRAND’s commitment to the Black community is infinite and central to who we are as a brand. We are incredibly proud to be a part of the work STORYCORPS is driving with BRIGHTNESS IN BLACK, ensuring that the voices and stories of the Black community remain a part of our collective history.”
STORYCORPS CEO SANDRA CLARK added, “For too long, Black stories have largely been depicted as one-dimensional and over-simplified. BRIGHTNESS IN BLACK encourages the Black community nationwide to challenge and reclaim this narrative by sharing their personal stories of triumph, challenges, resilience, and gratitude. STORYCORPS has developed a tried and trusted method for preserving the voices of everyday people and is uniquely positioned to develop this initiative.”
The initiative includes a national content distribution effort in collaboration with Black media outlets. Black Americans will be invited to record their stories virtually or in person. Participants can choose to record with a partner for a 50-minute conversation or alone for a 20-minute session. Stories also will be collected at pop-up events across the country.
The recordings can be made using STORYCORPS’ free tools, such as the STORYCORPS App and STORYCORPS CONNECT, or in person at STORYCORPS events or Mobile Tour Stops in partnership with local public radio stations.