More sturdy than a group chat and more caring than an institution.
Who can be a member?
Anyone who’s an oral history worker can become a member. A worker is anyone with experience — no credential required. We cater to contingent and contract workers, and also welcome workers in permanent roles.
Does it cost anything to join?
No, we don’t collect any kind of membership dues at this time.
Why join?
Joining offers access to other folks who want to talk about the labor of oral history work. It’s a chance to build new connections, troubleshoot a sticky issue, learn how to design a new role or project, strengthen your small business practices, or find ways to act in solidarity with peers.
What is the commitment like?
Members commit to listen, teach, and learn together as peers. We invite (but don’t require) members to participate in periodic chats and video calls, submit questions or issues they want addressed, read our occasional newsletter, and otherwise engage in shaping the activities and agenda of The Collective.
Why a collective?
A collective puts emphasis on mutual investment and mutual benefit, rather than an individual enterprise. It allows us to strategize and move as a bloc, providing some amount of cover for anyone who needs it. Also, we’re big on collaboration, co-creation, and co-ownership — all the co-’s!
Who should not join?
If you regularly say, “I don’t mind working for free!” or “You should work unpaid; think of the exposure!” then this collective is not for you. We respect volunteering when it’s not exploitative and doesn’t erase or undercut anyone; the Collective is at present a volunteer endeavor.