Last Thanksgiving, I visited my cousin’s family. A question about jazz came up. Back in my day, I would have had to get an encyclopedia, maybe even research it at the local library. All they had to do today is go to Wikipedia and their question was answered…just like that!
That shows you the power of Wikipedia on the Internet today. And it’s getting more powerful: Wikipedia is adding celebrity voices to preserve their legacies long after they’re gone. The project is called WikiVIP. They’re also calling on scientist, artist and other people who have made their mark on this generation to record their stories. One of the first to agree is Stephen Fry. He’s a British TV star and activist. They hope Fry’s influence and popularity, will inspire others to follow his lead. The BBC is giving Wikipedia short clips of it’s long history for perseverance.
I’m glad Wikipedia is taking this step. I hope?American celebrities follow this cause. Let’s face it, none of us are going to be here forever; none of us are even going to see 150. We have a rich history and culture. This is a great way to honor it and teach future generations.?What if George Washington, Fredrick Douglas,? Abraham Lincoln, or Elizabeth Cady Station had the voice technology we had today?