South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV), in partnership with Be The Ones, will premiere a new Palmetto Perspectives education special titled “Ready to Vote” on April 30 at 7 p.m. on ETV.
The program centers on the voices of young voters across South Carolina, offering candid perspectives on civic engagement, leadership and the issues shaping their future. From first-time voters to campus leaders and community changemakers, participants share what motivates them, what frustrates them and what inspires them to get involved in the democratic process.
Through honest dialogue and personal reflection, “Ready to Vote” explores what is at stake for young South Carolinians and why their participation – on campuses, in communities and at the polls – deeply matters. The conversation also acknowledges the barriers young people face when engaging in civic life, while highlighting the ways they’re finding agency, building community and creating change. The program creates space for young people to share their perspectives, priorities and vision while defining what leadership and civic participation look like for their generation.
Be The Ones, a nonpartisan grassroots organization, works to expand civic participation and build a culture where engagement is accessible, joyful and community driven. Through its Young Leaders Program and campus-based initiatives, Be The Ones supports young people in developing the skills, agency and relationships to participate in civic life and lead within their communities.
“Ready to Vote” is produced by SCETV in partnership with Be The Ones as part of the Palmetto Perspectives series, which highlights timely issues impacting South Carolinians through meaningful conversation and community-centered storytelling.
Additional air dates for the program include May 17 at 3 p.m. on ETV, May 18 at 3 p.m. on ETV World and May 18 at 8 p.m. on the South Carolina Channel. In addition to the broadcast, viewers can stream the program at SCETV.org and PBS.org as well as through the SCETV and PBS apps. The episode will also simulcast on SC Public Radio. Past Palmetto Perspectives episodes are also available to stream on demand.
SCETV is committed to keeping South Carolinians informed with comprehensive election coverage, including candidate information and in-depth resources to help voters stay engaged. Additional coverage can be found on the SCETV website at SCETV.org/elections, where users can access the latest updates and information ahead of the statewide primary election on June 9.
QUOTES
“Engaging young people in conversations about civic participation is essential to the future of our state. ‘Ready to Vote’ highlights the perspectives of the next generation and reinforces SCETV’s role in providing thoughtful programming that connects communities with the issues that matter most.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“At a time when so many young people feel overlooked in civic spaces, it’s critical that their voices are not just included—but centered. "Ready to Vote" is a powerful example of what’s possible when we create space for young people to connect their lived experiences to the issues they care about, name the barriers they’re navigating, and share how they are already showing up to lead - especially in this moment, when young voters have the power to shape what comes next. This collaboration reflects what we believe at Be The Ones: when we invest in young leaders and build together, we strengthen not just participation - but the future of our communities.” –Be The Ones Founder and Director Cate Mayer
"When students and emerging leaders are encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives, it strengthens understanding and helps foster a more informed and engaged public. This work is made possible through meaningful partnership and a shared understanding that when we invest collectively in young voices, their reach and resonance grow.” –SCETV Chief Learning Officer Dr. Salandra Bowman
“Public broadcasting plays such an important role in our country and it's exciting to work with SCETV to make sure young people’s voices are heard. This partnership with Be The Ones really shows the power of community collaboration – how we can expand access to information and amplify the perspectives and lived experiences of young people like me and my peers." –College of Charleston Student Luke Falls
FAST FACTS
- The Palmetto Perspectives education special titled “Ready to Vote” premieres April 30 at 7 p.m. on ETV.
- The program features young voters from across South Carolina sharing perspectives on civic engagement, leadership and the democratic process.
- The program is produced by SCETV in partnership with Be The Ones, a nonpartisan grassroots organization focused on expanding civic participation.
- Additional air dates include May 17 at 3 p.m. on ETV, May 18 at 3 p.m. on ETV World and May 18 at 8 p.m. on the South Carolina Channel.
- Viewers can also stream the program at SCETV.org and PBS.org as well as through the SCETV and PBS apps.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Kitchen Curious with Vivian Howard, Reel South and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
About Be The Ones
Be The Ones is a nonpartisan grassroots organization building healthier communities, a more equitable democracy, and expanding power by removing barriers to local civic participation across South Carolina. Through year-round programs, leadership development and creative, community-based initiatives, Be The Ones equips South Carolinians with the tools, relationships, and opportunities to actively participate in civic life. Learn more about Be The Ones.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
