Right now, Americans face their greatest challenge in a generation: rebuild our country in the wake of a global pandemic crisis. People of all backgrounds in this country have shown that we can come together in hard times. But with social distancing, an upcoming election, and growing feelings of isolation and separation from our communities, how do we rise to that challenge?

“Liberal” or “conservative,” everyone has a stake in this community -- and a responsibility to step up. Start by coming to the table: This year, take One Small Step.

In collaboration with the national nonprofit StoryCorps, WJCT Public Media is inviting residents to have a conversation with another member of your community who you might not otherwise have a chance to talk with and with whom you might even disagree politically.

It’s part of One Small Step, a nationwide project launched by StoryCorps to break down boundaries created by the difficult time in America right now. WJCT Public Media is one of six stations across the United States chosen to lead in this initiative in 2020.

It’s free to participate, and you can join us virtually — from your own home. Ask and answer questions like:

It’s not about politics. It’s an opportunity to talk about the life experiences that formed your values, and to be reminded of how to listen with respect . When we come together, we can find the stories and the dignity at the foundation of one another’s beliefs.

Excited to engage in One Small Step conversations in your own life? Explore StoryCorps's One Small Step "Do-It-Yourself "Conversation Guide.

• People interested in taking part in a One Small Step conversation should fill out our Questionnaire for potential participants. The responses help our team to pair people together to facilitate the best conversation possible.
• If you’re paired, station staff will reach out to each participant to set up a mutually convenient time for the One Small Step conversation. We will also share information to help both participants think about their questions for each other and feel prepared.
• You can take part in a StoryCorps conversation “virtually,” on a computer. Requirements: a reliable internet connection, and a computer with a video camera and a microphone. For “virtual” One Small Step recordings, the producer will do a short “tech check” with each participant a day or two before the recording appointment.
• During your One Small Step appointment, a facilitator will share some brief “paperwork” and explain how the recording will happen. Once recording begins, the facilitator will help start the conversation with 1-3 kick-off questions. After that, participants drive the conversation with questions of their own.
• The recording lasts about 40 minutes. The whole process takes 60-75 minutes.
• Each participant will receive a digital copy of the recording.
• If both participants choose, the recording is also preserved in the StoryCorps collection at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.
• Some recordings, with participants’ permission, will be edited and broadcast on the radio.
• Recordings start in July and continue through November 2020.

• DON’T: Interrupt your partner or raise your voice.
• DO: Listen carefully, with curiosity and an open mind.
• REMEMBER: It’s a two-way conversation. Be prepared to ask and answer questions. Don’t debate political issues. The goal is to talk with civility and get to know each other -- not as stereotypes or talking points -- but as neighbors and human beings.