Talking and listening is the best way to reunite a sorely divided America. In a partnership with StoryCorps, KOSU is inviting people across Oklahoma to take part in meaningful conversations being recorded for history.

With support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Oklahoma is one of six locations across the country selected to take part in Story-Corps’ nationwide One Small Step initiative to facilitate and broadcast conversations with Americans of opposing viewpoints. With participant permission, these conversations are preserved for future generations at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. StoryCorps is a national nonprofit dedicated to recording and preserving personal stories,

KOSU plans to broadcast edited versions of some of the Oklahoma submissions.

“After a year of isolation and division, it’s time to remember what we have in common. At KOSU, we are honored to facilitate these conversations,” said Rachel Hubbard, KOSU executive director. “It is important to us that all Oklahomans feel heard and valued, no matter their life experiences or what shaped them.”

Dave Isay, founder and president of StoryCorps, agrees.

“Recent polls demonstrate what most of us have already experienced first-hand: that there is a pervasive culture of contempt that threatens the very foundations of our democracy,” he said. “According to a CBS News poll released earlier this year, more than half of all Americans say the greatest danger to America’s way of life comes from their fellow citizens. One Small Step aims to remind people of the humanity in all of us and that it’s hard to hate up close. These communities can model this change for the rest of the country.”

President and CEO Patricia Harrison says the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is very pleased to support this effort.

“StoryCorps uses its innovative approach to sharing stories in its One Small Step Communities initiative to foster understanding and respect, even among people who deeply disagree,” she said. “By working with local public radio stations to connect people with different backgrounds and political beliefs, One Small Step is helping stations strengthen their communities, one step at a time.”