The One Third Project is a storytelling video and essay project amplifying the voices of Americans over 80 talking about this unique and critical moment in American democracy. Your testimonials and lifetime of experience engaged with the American experiment is the heart of the campaign!

Write Your Story

  • In roughly 300 words, write your reflections on America, its governance, and our collective past. The Presidents and Congresses of your lifetime and how they were so different from what we see now.
  • Start with your age 🙂 The fact that you’ve seen so much of our nation’s history is the thread across all of the stories
  • Emphasis may be on unity versus divisiveness, corruption versus good governance and public service, or a commitment to the rule of law versus the chaos of the recent past.
  • We don’t need folks to pretend that America was always great. It’s much stronger to point out that we could acknowledge our faults and work on them together through disagreement in the past.
  • The personal is universal–think about your unique story: where you come from, your career, your memories. Speak from your own perspective.

Take it from the Page to the Screen

After writing your reflection, it’s time to film your video! Rather than producing videos that look polished or corporate,  lean into a personal, homemade style! But please do not read directly off the page.

  • Film on a smartphone, you don’t need nice microphones or fancy cameras.
  • No need for a crew. But a helper is useful—like a neighbor, family member, or grandchild.
  • When you can see someone reading a script on camera, you feel less connected to them!
  • Memorize, paraphrase, or use a partner to help prompt you.

What You’ll Need

Everything you need for a great at-home shoot! Consider and brainstorm through the below when preparing for your filming.

 

  • (Ideally) A collaborator 
    • Brainstorm a filming partner
    • Is there a good candidate to hold the camera and help you film? A relative, neighbor, or friend? 
  • Find a time to film
    • Set aside at least an hour, ideally two.
    • Think about when the lighting in your home looks best and brightest
  • Think about a location in your home
    • Bright, even lighting
    • A pleasing background
    • Quiet! Especially using the microphone on your phone.

Ways to get involved

All the different ways you can get involved with Third Act: