Voices hero
Racism, police brutality, disparities in education, careers, health care, economic opportunity, business and housing - are just some of the issues that have long plagued Pittsburgh's African American and other marginalized communities. It's important to know who's already working for change. But how can others get involved? Whose positive efforts are going unnoticed? WQED's video documentary series hopes to create dialogue by sharing the thoughtful voices of a diverse group – different backgrounds, different ideas, different goals - all working towards equity.
Latest Episode:
EPISODE 12: Impact of Gun Violence
In the United States, nearly 1 in 5 adults has had a family member killed by a firearm. While no two stories are the same, the impact of gun violence in our society affects nearly everyone. In this episode of VOICES, we meet three people who have lost loved ones or friends to gun violence.
EPISODE 11: Activism
Many people feel that their voice doesn't matter. But sometimes all it takes is one person to effect change. In this episode, meet people who were moved by societal concerns to take action for the first time.
EPISODE 10: The Prison System
Over 2 million Americans are incarcerated in jails, prisons, and juvenile correction institutions. Hear from formerly incarcerated local citizens reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and hopes for changing America’s criminal justice system.
EPISODE 9: Why Words Matter
The English language remains filled with commonly-used words and idioms that began as slurs or insults to certain ethnic groups. Explore how derogatory terms enter the lexicon, and why words matter.
EPISODE 8: The Generational Wealth Gap
It's a systemic inequity that dates back hundreds of years. A stark absence of generational wealth among African American families often leads to insurmountable obstacles, including debt and inability to own a home.
EPISODE 7: Gentrification & Displacement
As Pittsburgh’s cost of living continues to rise, we look at gentrification and its impact on the city’s marginalized communities. When developers descend on Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods, who stands to gain and lose?
EPISODE 6: Mental Health and the Black Community
African Americans experience mental health issues in a number of ways yet only one in three Black adults who need mental health care receive it. Hear from those who are overcoming the stigma of mental health treatment and breaking barriers.
EPISODE 5: A Childbirth Crisis
Decades of inequity in the healthcare system have led to a crisis in Black maternal health. Mothers and babies are dying in childbirth at an alarming rate, much higher than their White counterparts.
EPISODE 4: Can I Make a Difference?
Some young people show early indications of future community involvement or activism. In this episode, Pittsburgh area youth talk about today’s social climate, racism, inequity and much more.
EPISODE 3: Pittsburghers on Racism and Resilience
Pittsburghers of different racial and ethnic backgrounds share their encounters with racism and discrimination in this region.
EPISODE 2: Shades of Love
In recent months, discussions on racism and equity are more prevalent in American homes. And those topics have special significance for people in interracial marriages or partnerships.
EPISODE 1: The Most Livable City, for Who?
Among U.S. cities, Pittsburgh ranks poorly in many areas involving racial equity. In this episode of VOICES, a diverse group of community leaders and activists share their thoughts on how to improve our region's lack of progress.
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