Tube City Tales is a publication of Tube City Writers and the Mon Valley Photography Collective.
The presses and newsroom of the former Daily News building had been quiet for four years until one spring evening last year, when Dr. Nicole Peeler and I hosted the first Tube City Writers session in the newly opened McKeesport Community Newsroom.
I had no idea who would show up at that first meeting. I had spent the previous week traversing McKeesport’s steep hillsides informing neighbors that a writer’s group was coming together in the old newsroom. The flyer I distributed inquired: “Do you have a story to tell?”
Yes, they do have stories to tell. And, yes, there are people who want to hear their stories. Our first meeting attracted a wide range of backgrounds. From teenagers to senior citizens, they bonded over sharing the same community. A year and half later, the group remains diverse in life experiences.
Later that autumn, we organized the Mon Valley Photography Collective comprised of photography enthusiasts from around the region with different levels of experience. What they share is the strong belief in the power of images to inform and inspire change. You probably saw us documenting events such as McKeesport’s annual fireworks display and annual Salute to Santa Parade.
Writing and photography at its best can unite communities by telling stories that inspire a greater good. The pandemic has created more uncertainties and challenges for our group due to uneven resources and technology, but we have persevered. We know we are more powerful when we support each other. History has left its indelible marks on us, but in order to create a more equitable future, we know we need to drive the conversation.
Tube City Tales is a celebration of people, their experiences and reflections, and sometimes their achievements. I am very proud of all the incredible work our wonderful participants have created. They have taught me so much about what it means to live and work in the Mon Valley. Their honesty and willingness to share their lives with me has made me a better person.
We invite you to sit back and take in their stories. Then, please consider joining us to tell your own story.
- Martha Rial