The Bridge to Freedom - Oral History Initiative 

Uncover and preserve the untold stories of Philadelphia's history. Join a pioneering project to document the collaboration between African, Caribbean and African American communities during the Civil Rights Movement. 

The Mission 

The "Bridge to Freedom" initiative is an oral history project dedicated to capturing the first-person narratives of individuals from the African and Caribbean diaspora who played a role in the American Civil Rights Movement. Many of these stories of Pan-African solidarity and co-leadership have never been formally documented. This project aims to create a living archive, ensuring these vital histories are preserved for future generations at Temple University's renowned Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection. 

The Opportunity for Students 

This opportunity offers volunteer experience, professional mentorship and networking with community leaders, journalists and cultural institutions. Participants will gain hands-on skills and portfolio-building experience in oral history, storytelling and media production. 

As a project participant, you will: 

• Receive specialized training in oral history methodology and interviewing techniques from Dr. Diane Turner, Curator of the Blockson Collection. 

• Be paired with and mentored by a journalist from organizations like the Temple Association of Black Journalists (TABJ). 

• Conduct and record interviews with community members, capturing their unique experiences. 

• Develop complete interview packages, including audio/video, written profiles and photographs. 

• Have your work curated and co-published on FunTimes Magazine's digital platforms. 

Who We Are Looking For 

We are seeking curious, committed and passionate students interested in journalism, history, media production, African American studies and community storytelling. This opportunity is open to all Temple students, irrespective of major. 

Your final work will be permanently archived in the prestigious Blockson Collection and showcased to the public, creating a lasting historical record. 

Project Timeline 

• October-December 2025: Student Recruitment 

• January-February 2026: Core Training Sessions at the Blockson Collection 

• Spring 2026: Fieldwork and Interviews (with mentor support) 

• Late Spring 2026: Public Showcase & Archiving of Interviews 

Collaborating Partners 

• FunTimes Magazine 

• Temple University (Klein College of Media and Communication) 

• Temple University Libraries (Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection) 

• Temple Association of Black Journalists (TABJ) and NABJ 

Get Involved 

For more information or to express your interest, please contact: 

• Joi Weathers: [click-for-email] 

• Prof. Denise James: denise.james@temple.edu