Storytellers:

On Wednesday at the Phoenix Theatre, hear stories about American life.

I am an American. For many citizens, this statement garners pride. For others, it’s an ideology to live up to. For most, it represents our identity as a people of this nation.

As part of USA TODAY Network’s initiative to celebrate diversity, Phoenix has been chosen as one of three cities to feature the storytelling event “I am an American.” On June 14 at 7 p.m. at the Phoenix Theatre, your neighbors will share stories that show the window into an American life. All of the stories are true, first-person narratives that carry the spirit of Americans, influenced by various backgrounds and life experiences. Storytellers include: » Ryan Kitchell, 37, Tempe, a veteran Navy photographer, learns to grapple with his time on duty by drinking a fifth of whiskey — every night. Kitchell takes us through the daunting process of the VA hospital and the challenges of living a civilian life.

» Rachel Egboro, 30, Phoenix, participates in the annual ritual of “Take Your Daughter to Work Day,” and learns things about her father that inspire her in adulthood. Between the all too common corporate mergers and harsh realities of the business world, Egboro dives into what it means to begin again and live the American dream.

» Nate Romero, 38, Phoenix, shares a multifaceted tale about a trip to San Francisco. His encounters with three men in particular make him question the significance of his life, his place as a gay man in America and what it means to be alive during a time when the gay community was in dire need.

» Laura Gomez-Rodriguez, 25, Phoenix, questions the importance of a name and how it shapes one’s identity. Due to the frequent mispronunciation of her name, Gomez-Rodriguez explores how her culture, her family and even her being is represented by it.

» Calvin Worthen, 38, Chandler, poses the question: Is it possible for a gift to steal Christmas? His story will share his family’s experience of a Christmas like no other. It leaves him pondering about family, poverty and creativity during gift-giving seasons.

This intimate night of stories will be hosted by Alexus Rhone, who is producing the show on behalf of the Storytellers Project, and Megan Finnerty, founder and director of the Storytellers Project. The project is a national series of newsroom-produced storytelling nights featuring community members.