StoryCorps Griot is an ongoing initiative to ensure that the voices, experiences, and life stories of African Americans will be preserved and presented with dignity.

All interviews recorded as part of the Griot Initiative will be archived at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) in addition to the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

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Listen to more Griot stories on the StoryCorps Listen page.

What Is a Griot?

The StoryCorps Griot Initiative is inspired by the role of the griot (pronounced gree-oh) in West African tradition. It is
a role of honor, designating someone who maintains community tradition
and memory through storytelling, music, and dance.

How to Participate

StoryCorps Griot began as a one-year national tour funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, but there are still many ways to participate in StoryCorps and have your recording included in the Griot archive at the NMAAHC.

Record your story. You can visit one of our StoryBooths or record from the comfort of your own home through our StoryKit program. Please indicate that you want your recording included in the Griot Archive when making your reservation. Prepare for your interview by using our great questions for Griots, created especially for the StoryCorps Griot Initiative.

Bring StoryCorps to your community. StoryCorps partners with groups and organizations to offer on-site recordings at the location of your choice. Find out more about our services and resources for partners. You can also view a list of our Community Partners.