WHYY, StoryCorps and Temple University are collaborating on a new initiative, “Brightness in Black,” as part of StoryCorps’ 2024 Mobile Tour. This partnership aims to highlight and celebrate the richness of Black experiences through personal stories that showcase joy, resilience and cultural pride.
StoryCorps, a leader in capturing and archiving personal narratives, is marking its 20th anniversary with this groundbreaking initiative. “Brightness in Black” is dedicated to highlighting the profound and uplifting aspects of Black life in America. The initiative focuses on countering harmful stereotypes and celebrating the diverse voices within Black communities.
“WHYY is committed to giving a voice to those often not heard, a platform to share everyone’s stories and a trusted space for unbiased news and conversation,” said Bill Marrazzo, President & CEO of WHYY, in a statement. “This collaboration is another way we can enrich our listeners’ experience, promote knowledge and open eyes and ears to wrongful attitudes and beliefs.”
For two decades, StoryCorps has been instrumental in preserving meaningful conversations. To date, the organization has facilitated nearly 700,000 interviews, with those stories archived in the U.S. Library of Congress and accessible online. StoryCorps’ extensive collection of human voices is the largest ever gathered, and their impactful stories are shared through NPR broadcasts, podcasts, animated shorts, and best-selling books.
The “Brightness in Black” initiative builds on StoryCorps’ foundational work by engaging with communities to collect and share inspiring narratives. This program will include interviews, community events, and interactive activities, fostering a broader and more inclusive dialogue.
Now through Sept. 6, the StoryCorp airstream is open for appointments. In-person recordings will take place at Temple University, 1715-1719 N. Broad Street. Both participants must be physically present for the recording. Virtual recordings can take place anywhere, as long as one participant lives in the region and both have access to an internet connected device. Participants can be in the same location while recording or in different locations.
For more about the process and to make an appointment, visit storycorps.org
