Interview a Hero

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Who is your Civil Rights Hero?

Every person in every movement has a role to play. Do you know someone who played a role in the Civil Rights Movement? What is your civil rights story? Interview family, friends or community members and share what you hear. Upload your story

A guide to creating great videos

  1. Use a tripod. If you don't have one, try propping up the video camera on a table or some books.
  2. Use a microphone if you have one. If you don’t have one, be sure to sit close to your subject. Make sure your subject speaks up so they can be heard on the video.
  3. Don’t zoom in and out. Be sure to get a nice close shot of your subject so his or her face can be seen. And don’t mess with the camera once you are set.
  4. Stay quiet when your subject is talking. Don’t say "yes," "oh," "hmm" or make other little noises while they are talking—it will be picked up on the video.
  5. Don’t ask questions your subject can answer with a "yes" or "no." Instead, ask your subject a question that will take time and detail to answer—"Will you tell me about that event" or "Why did you go?" for example.
  6. At the beginning of the conversation, have your subject state his or her name and city. If you're recording your own thoughts, don't forget to state your name, city and describe what you will talk about.
  7. Don’t sit your subject in front of a window or in front of bright lights. Be sure there is plenty of light on your subject’s face.
  8. Pay attention to what your subject says—an answer might give you an idea for another question. Who knows? You may learn something too.