Inspired by witnessing a nationwide racial reckoning as cross-cultural individuals united in protest for social justice last year, the Express Your Power series explores the relationship between media, civil rights, and social change. Taking an innovative public pedagogy approach, the creators partnered with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library in New York City. Discover how popular short-form explainer videos combined with public events reach an audience of e-learners and empower them to contribute to the global narrative. 

Media Smart Citizens, the creative force behind the movement, is educating people to responsibly share their stories and explain why they have a right to do so. With the video series at the center of our multifaceted audience engagement strategy, we have expanded our presence to include LibGuides, public events, a social media presence, a website, and additional digital learning resources. 

Answering how one can responsibly exercise their freedom of expression with media is the Express Your Power series’ focus. It introduces the First Amendment as the foundation of respect for others and a central human right in America. Emphasizing the significance of personal truth-telling, educating storytellers on the many media formats and resources they can use to tell their stories – the series fosters community building. Gaining more insight into each other’s life experiences promotes better social inclusion and strengthens our democracy.