The Mission
Worlds Apart is a cable television program produced in York County, Pennsylvania, dedicated to informing, educating, and expanding dialogue concerning issues related to the causes of racial discord in American society. The ultimate goal is to explore viable solutions through constructive dialogue.
Worlds Apart first aired on York Community Access Television in July 1997. The founder and host, Bryan Wade, produced 14 programs with volunteer help and his personal finances. In 1998, the YWCA of York agreed to act as project coordinator and financial liaison by accepting funds until Worlds Apart obtains 501-3 status.
Since July 1997, Worlds Apart has expanded its cable subscriber potential from 68,000 to approximately 2.5 million. Also, in April 2000, Worlds Apart began airing in Berks, Dauphin, Schuykill counties, as well as in parts of California.
In May 1999, an advisory board was established to provide programmatic, financial, and technical support to maintain and expand the work of Worlds Apart. In May 2000, a board of directors was created for the purpose of incorporation and application for 501-3 status with the IRS.
The expected result is that Worlds Apart will serve as a media outlet, providing education necessary for dismantling myths and stereotypes. At present, Worlds Apart partners with scholars and professionals associated with institutions throughout Central Pennsylvania, including York College, Millersville University, Pennsylvania State University, Franklin & Marshall College, The Institute for Cultural Partnership, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and the Legislative Body of the Pennsylvania Black Caucus. These organizations are only part of a vast network of program assistance afforded Worlds Apart.
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Worlds Apart attempts to explore via the medium of television and radio, various local, national, and world institutions that contribute to what is commonly called racism. Worlds Apart explores the historic legacy of myths and stereotypes, and how the perception of racism varies based on the influences of culture, environment, and class.
Worlds Apart examines how various social institutions, public and private, perpetuate racism. Additionally, Worlds Apart seeks to understand through the study of history, culture, religion, environment, science and other social institutions, issues that contribute to the polarization of individuals and ethnic groups on a local, state, national and international level.
The ultimate purpose of Worlds Apart is to explore viable solutions through constructive dialogue regarding issues of race, ethnicity, human interaction, and peaceful coexistence.
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