Story Corps, the nonprofit that records people stories often in partnership with public radio stations and the Library of Congress, is returning our region in February 2019 to record stories with people whose political views may differ but who are willing to talk and listen to each other. It’s part of the “One Small Step” project.
The NKU Scripps Howard Center for Civic Engagement, which has long been committed to the power of listening to each other, is partnering with Story Corps — and urging everyone to sign up.
Here’s the project in Story Corps’ own words:
Over the last 15 years, Story Corps has perfected a method for helping people feel more connected and for reminding us of the inherent worth of every person and every story. People come together to have otherwise impossible conversations, using our tools and questions. The microphone gives them license to talk about things they otherwise might not discuss.
Now, we are doing something different. We are asking people with different political views to record a Story Corps interview with each other. Why? To break down boundaries created by politics and remember our shared humanity. To remind us that we have more in common than divides us and that treating those with whom we disagree with decency and respect is essential to a functioning democracy.
With One Small Step, we are seeking to counteract intensifying political divides, by facilitating and recording conversations that enable people who disagree to listen to each other with respect.
What can you do?
1) Are you a conservative? A liberal? A Republican? A Democrat? Other? All voices are welcomed. Indeed, all voices are needed. Please consider applying to participate.
2) To sign up, step one is this Screening Questionnaire. From those, the Story Corps team will select participants.
3) Each recorded conversation will involve two people, a facilitator, 40 minutes and a mic. Simple.
The Story Corps team will match you up. And schedule your session.
In the interest of balance, there will be an equal number of voices with different points of view.
The goal is to have people from different places on the political spectrum talk with one another.
“Spread the word,” says Mark Neikirk, director of the Scripps Howard Center. “We want have many voices heard! All voices! Please share this opportunity.”