What's Happening?
Journalists Mary Schmich and Bill Healy have launched a podcast titled 'Division Street Revisited,' which updates the stories of seven individuals originally interviewed by Studs Terkel in his 1967 book
'Division Street: America.' The podcast aims to explore the enduring influence of Terkel's work, focusing on ordinary people whose voices were not widely heard during the volatile 1960s. The podcast was discussed during a program at the Evergreen Park Public Library, highlighting its connections to the South Side and suburbs of Chicago. The project was initiated by Melissa Harris, who discovered Terkel's papers at the Chicago History Museum and proposed the idea of a podcast. The team secured grants to fund the project, which involved traveling across the country to gather updates on the lives of the original interviewees.
Why It's Important?
The podcast 'Division Street Revisited' is significant as it revives Studs Terkel's approach to capturing oral histories from ordinary people, offering a platform for voices that are often overlooked. This initiative reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing stories from individuals who lack power, contributing to a more inclusive historical narrative. By revisiting these stories, the podcast fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own family histories and societal changes. The project also demonstrates the evolving nature of journalism, utilizing modern technology to continue Terkel's legacy in a format accessible to contemporary audiences.
What's Next?
The podcast team hopes to engage more listeners and encourage them to share the stories, ensuring the podcast's longevity through word-of-mouth. Although the library program's registration is full, a waitlist is available, and the podcast remains accessible for free on various platforms. The team aims to continue promoting the podcast, hoping it will inspire listeners to appreciate the importance of oral histories and the stories of everyday people. The success of this project may lead to further explorations of historical narratives through similar formats, potentially influencing future journalistic endeavors.
Beyond the Headlines
The podcast not only revisits historical narratives but also raises questions about whose stories are told and remembered. It challenges traditional power dynamics in storytelling, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping collective memory. This approach aligns with current societal efforts to address historical injustices and promote equity in representation. The project also highlights the role of technology in preserving and disseminating oral histories, offering new opportunities for engagement and education.
