COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina ETV (SCETV) and Public Radio (SC Public Radio) today announced plans to participate in StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative. Made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the initiative serves as an opportunity to capture the experiences of our veterans, service members and military families, as well as help civilians better understand the complex realities of veterans’ service and sacrifice. It will be achieved through a virtual interview process, taking place the weeks of April 12 and April 19.
A national nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing the stories of people from all backgrounds and beliefs, StoryCorps has recorded conversations with nearly half a million people throughout its 18-year history. The organization preserves the recordings in its archive at the Library of Congress, the largest single collection of human voices ever gathered.
In a StoryCorps interview, two people are able to record a meaningful conversation with one another about who they are, what they’ve learned in life and how they want to be remembered. Recording an interview with StoryCorps couldn’t be easier: An individual invites a loved one, or anyone else they choose, to join them for a conversation. In the recording space, the participants are met by a trained facilitator who explains the interview process. Once recording begins, the conversation typically lasts approximately 40 minutes. At the end of the session, participants will receive a copy of their interviews, and digital files will be submitted to the Library of Congress, where they will be preserved for generations to come. Select recordings will also air on SC Public Radio as part of a special series in 2022.
In response to the ongoing pandemic, StoryCorps’ interview process is being maintained virtually, using a video conference technology platform that allows both participants to see and hear one another during their conversation, and to be joined by a facilitator remotely. Military service members and veterans who wish to participate and share their stories should reserve an appointment by clicking here.
For those that would like more information before reserving a recording appointment, a virtual listening party will be held April 6 from 7 – 8 p.m. This event will provide an overview of the initiative, describe the recording process and answer any outstanding questions from participants. To RSVP for the virtual listening party, click here.
For more information on SC Public Radio’s participation in StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative, click here.
QUOTES:
“As South Carolina’s lead storytelling organization, we couldn’t be more proud to participate in StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative. More than 400,000 veterans call the Palmetto State home, and we look forward to providing a platform for them to share their stories and experiences.” –SCETV President and CEO Anthony Padgett
“With eight major military installations and a growing veteran population, South Carolina is undoubtedly one of the most military friendly states in the country. As our neighbors, friends and relatives, current and former military servicemembers are integral to our communities, and we’re honored to participate in this initiative to help capture stories.” –SCETV Assistant General Manager Adrienne Fairwell
FIVE FAST FACTS:
- SC Public Radio is participating in StoryCorps’ Military Voices Initiative, which aims to honor South Carolina’s veteran and military community by recording and preserving their stories.
- The initiative will be achieved through a virtual interview process, taking place the weeks of April 12 and April 19.
- StoryCorps’ interview process is being maintained virtually, using a video conference technology platform that allows both participants to see and hear one another during their conversation, and to be joined by a facilitator remotely.
- Military service members and veterans who wish to participate and share their stories should reserve an appointment by clicking here.
- For those that would like more information before reserving a recording appointment, a virtual listening party will be held April 6 from 7 – 8 p.m. Click here to register for that event.