Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Lakethen Mason, Executive Director of Memphis FilmWorks, who shares his experience spearheading a project to get to know hundreds of Mid-South neighbors through engaging conversations, which has culminated into a multi-volume oral narrative collection. “Our Neighbors, Our Stories: in search of common ground” is the first in a three-part book series that chronicles the art, life, history and diverse culture of Memphis. It captures the shared experiences of families, friends, and residents who lived through unprecedented times. The book also assesses the challenges, changes, and revitalization efforts of historic Memphis neighborhoods through the lens of families who call these neighborhoods home. The book is a literary interpretation of 100 of the 300 interviews conducted with support from The Kresge Foundation and The Assisi Foundation of Memphis, Inc. During the interview, Lakethen talks about the process of putting the project together and conducting the interviews, honoring the experiences of our neighbors and finding connection to strengthen our community, important takeaways, and opportunities for the public to join in the effort, including their Book Launch and Honors Ceremony on Thursday, May 19 at the Halloran Center for Performing Arts.
Visit www.ourneighborsourstories.org to learn more.
