JOHNSTON — Iowa PBS encourages you to be a part of PBS American Portrait, a national storytelling project which invites individuals to participate in a conversation about what it really means to be an American today. A digital-first initiative, PBS American Portrait begins as a platform for people to share photos, videos and text submissions to capture the state and spirit of our nation.
Participants are welcome to tell their own stories by responding to one of a number of thought provoking prompts with a short video. Prompts include: “I was raised to believe...,” “The tradition I carry on is...,” “My American story started when...” and “When I step outside my door...,” among others. Submissions may be included on PBS American Portrait platforms, including featured collections, PBS American Portrait social media, Iowa PBS social media or the localized Iowa documentary, Story of Us, slated for release in March 2021. For more information and to submit your response, visit iowapbs.org/americanportrait.
“This initiative is a chance for Iowans to give us a glimpse into their lives, an opportunity to be heard and a chance for us all to see what it really means to be American today,” said Iowa PBS Executive Director and General Manager Molly Phillips. “PBS American Portrait would not be complete without including Iowans’ voices.”
A special storytelling workshop will be held virtually as part of this initiative on Feb. 2 from 6-7:30 p.m. If you would like help crafting your story from storytellers from across the state, register for this free event at iowapbs.org/americanportrait.
New episodes of PBS American Portrait will air in January on statewide Iowa PBS on Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. I Dream airs Jan. 5; I Work airs Jan. 12; I Keep airs Jan. 19; and I Rise airs Jan. 26. Visit iowapbs.org/schedule for more information.
For more information about Iowa PBS, please contact Susan Ramsey at 515.725.9703 or susan.ramsey@iowapbs.org.