In 2026, the Smithsonian and 25 Smithsonian Affiliate organizations nationwide will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with the Making History, Making Change Lecture Series.

From January to September, Smithsonian experts—curators, scientists, educators, and historians—will visit communities across the country to share stories that reflect the richness and complexity of the American experience. Each lecture will explore how people, moments, and ideals have shaped our history and continue to drive change.

JANM is honored to welcome Dr. Anthea Hartig, director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, for a conversation exploring the enduring significance of the Declaration of Independence and the ideas that have shaped the American experience for nearly 250 years.

Following the keynote discussion, participants will have the opportunity to consider many of the same questions that confronted the nation's founders. Young adults from across the country have taken part in this exercise, discussing the issues they believe are most important, and drafting declarations that reflect their aspirations for the future.

Now it’s your turn. This interactive activity invites participants to reflect on the principles of the Declaration of Independence, discuss issues that matter to them, and create their own declaration for the future.

The Making History, Making Change Lecture Series is organized by Smithsonian Affiliations as part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250. It is supported in part by the Dreier Family, Johanna and Ken Kim Family, Vaishali Shah Chadha and Family, and Michael Vu & Meridel Bulle-Vu.