“Were people separated when you were a kid?” 

“Why do you think racism exists?” 

“What would be the solution to racism?” 
 

The Macon-Bibb Teen Communications Program is learning about journalism through hands-on experience, and these heavy questions are part of that. The group from Frank Johnson Recreation Center took a trip to the Elaine H. Lucas Senior Center to interview some of our elders about their experiences throughout their lives. The students in the program were responsible for all elements of the process. They wrote the questions, set up lighting and sound equipment, operated the cameras, and conducted the interviews.  

All the seniors recounted their painful experiences with segregation and life in the south throughout the integration process. The teenagers listened closely and thanked each senior for their time and emotional labor. The seniors said they were happy to share their experiences to help support these young people on their career paths, and in their lives overall. 

“We wanted these young people to not only get the experience of working with equipment like lights and cameras, and interviewing people – but also to learn about the past,” says JaCory Bazell, Teen Comms Program Coordinator. “These seniors have a wealth of experience with this thing called life. The kids can take history classes and read books – but the best history is right here in front of us.” 

The interviews were recorded, and now the teenagers will upload and edit the footage, and learn about the process of taking footage and turning it into a compelling story. The aim with this specific project is to make it a larger part of a conversation on race relations in our community. To be a part of this journey and follow the adventures of our talented young citizens, visit their page on Facebook. If you’d like your teen to get involved, call the Recreation Department at (478) 751-9280.