Illinois Voices 250

Anyone can contribute to Illinois Voices 250. You don’t need any previous experience! 

• Step 1: Pick a conversation partner. A friend, a family member, someone you work with or live with, a teacher, a mentor, etc.
• Step 2: Get ready to record. Go to StoryCorps and follow the instructions to log onto the recording page. (similar to Zoom, Teams or Google Meet).
• Step 3: Record your conversation. You can use the suggested questions in the conversation guide or come up with questions of your own. You can record in any language.
• Step 4: Save your recording. When you’re finished recording, follow the prompts to save and archive your conversation so it can be included in the Illinois Voices 250 collection.
• Step 5: Give permission to share your recording. You will have the option to receive a copy of your recording. With your permission, StoryCorps will archive it as part of the special Illinois collection and at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.   

• Make the most of this moment. Use this milestone anniversary to reflect on the past, think about the future, and think about what’s important about this moment in time.
• Honor someone you care about. Take time to talk about the things that matter most with someone who has played an important role in your life.
• Build understanding. Your recording will help other people better understand the wide variety of experiences and ideas in our community.
• Create a legacy for the future. You’ll be part of history. Not just today, but for generations to come. 

Unsure how to start your conversation? Illinois Humanities has you covered!  

Check out the optional conversation guide, full of helpful tips on having a great conversation, recording your story, submitting your materials, and even warm-up questions.  

Your story matters, so share it in the way that feels most authentic to you. We welcome and encourage your personal questions and conversation style.