100 Years Project Gives Voice to Those Unheard
Only a select few in the world may call themselves a “centenarian.” But for those who do, there is much pride and wisdom in the title.
To be a centenarian – to have lived for 100 years or more – comes with great privilege and responsibility, holding the secrets to a world most could only imagine. And to bring that world to life, ProSocial is excited to lead the effort in an unprecedented new initiative called the 100 Years Project, which will tell the stories of over a century of history through the perspective of African American centenarians. These Americans have seen, felt and survived some of the most remarkable and shameful moments of this country’s history – yet, their stories remain largely untold. Now, with the help of 100 Years, it is their time to shine.
Through these centenarians, we will see through new eyes both World Wars; the sinking of the Titanic; the Great Depression; the Jazz Age; and the birth of the Civil Rights Movement. We will re-experience the life and death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; the advent of radio, television, automobiles and airplanes; man’s first walk on the moon; the beginning of the Information Age; and the election of America’s first black president. And so much more.
The campaign will utilize synchronized exhibits and initiatives that incorporate film, music, photography, books, radio, oral history and online platforms. A feature-length documentary film will be helmed by award-winning photographer and filmmaker Kimberlee Acquaro and will drive the vision of the 100 Years initiative. The film will be produced by Emmy Award-winner, Perrin Chiles, and ProSocial CEO, Meredith Blake, who will also act as the Chief Campaign Strategist. ProSocial will design and execute the overall educational outreach campaign.
We are thrilled to also work with an inspiring group of advisors and supporters on the project, including Dr. Julian Bond, Dr. William Jelani Cobb, Dr Frank Gilliam, Whoopi Goldberg and Dr. Ula Taylor.
The 100 Years Project is currently in development. For more information – including additional photos and video – and to stay up-to-date, visit 100yearsproject.org.
