Hear Wanda Friday at StoryCorps Live: The Greatest Generation

Anyone who has followed our Safe & Sound blog for a while knows who Wanda Bridgeforth is. You’ve seen her photo here. You’ve read her writing here. But do you know what she sounds like? Now’s your chance!

Earlier this month I spent an hour with Wanda in a StoryCorps booth in Chicago (aside from their studio in New York City, StoryCorps has two satellite sites: one in Atlanta and the other in Chicago). While there is no guarantee Wanda’s interview will air nationally on NPR, I can tell you this: a short excerpt of the conversation Wanda and I recorded will air at a special StoryCorps event in Chicago this Friday. How do I know this, you ask? Because I’ve been selected to host the event!

I know. I didn’t believe it when they asked me, either. But check out this official invitation from StoryCorps:

StoryCorps Live: The Greatest Generation

Since StoryCorps Chicago first opened in 2013, more than 200 people aged 90 and above from the Chicago community have visited us to record their stories and memories. Join us for a public event featuring excerpts of these recordings, plus audience discussion and refreshments. Hosted by author, teacher, and journalist Beth Finke.
WHEN: Friday, November 22, 2019 at 11am

WHERE: Renaissance Court, our neighbors in the Chicago Cultural Center, at 78 E Washington Street. (Accessible entrance at 77 E Randolph.)

Selected interviews have been edited down to five-minute pieces, I’ve been given bios of the nonagenarians interviewed in those, and I’ll be introducing their pieces at the event. Among others, you’ll be hearing from a Japanese-American man who talks of internment camps in the 1940s; a woman whose work at a University of Chicago lab in the 1940s was part of the Manhattan Project; a Hyde Park resident who talks about the complexities of growing up in early 20th century with a white mother and a black father; and a fabulous writer we all know who relives her memories growing up in Chicago’s lively Bronzeville neighborhood.

That last member of the Greatest Generation is, of course, our 98-year-old Wanda. Snacks and refreshments will be served at the event, an ASL interpreter will be on hand, and the event is free. All you have to do is RSVP online here or phone Renaissance Court at 312.744.4550 to let them know you’re coming. Look for me there — next thing you know, I’ll be hosting the Oscars.