On February 17, more than 60 young adults from across the country gathered at the National Constitution Center to draft and sign a youth-written “Our Declaration” outlining their commitments and vision for America’s next 250 years.
Held steps away from where the Constitution was adopted, Youth250: Our Declaration positioned Generation Z not only as observers of history, but as co-authors of what comes next. The event, part of the national Youth250 initiative led by Made By Us, was broadcast in part on C-SPAN and marked a defining civic moment in the lead-up to the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Through facilitated workshops, intergenerational dialogue, and creative performance, participants reflected on what it means to inherit American democracy at a milestone anniversary. The day culminated in the signing of a large-scale Declaration scroll, visualized live. The physical document will now travel to museums and institutions nationwide, amplifying youth voices in the months leading to July 4, 2026.
in partnership with
What We Shared
A Day That Blends History and Innovation
Through dialogue, art, and collaboration, more than 60 youth participants articulated what it means to come of age at this milestone moment, joined by creators, performers and older allies.
Panel: Generational Snapshot: Coming of Age in 2026
A look at the forces shaping Gen Z and the questions defining this generation, with civic leaders Arielle Geismar, Jerome Foster and Shania Bennett.
Spark Talk: The Founder Mindset
What it means to be a founder, with Policylink CEO Michael McAfee.
Our Declaration Interactive Workshop
Facilitated workshop to produce a collective “Our Declaration” live, from grievances to fresh commitments, visualized by artist Haley McDevitt on a large scroll.
"Letters to America" Creative Showcase
Eight creative performances by Gen Z artists, poets, singers, filmmakers, dancers, technologists and more, to inspire us forward together.
"Our Leaders Respond" Panel
Established leaders respond to the calls of the next generation - with Colleen Shogan, Bruce Cohen and Ted Johnson.
Signing the Declaration
Gen Z attendees sign off on the declaration that will travel the country.
From Philadelphia to Your Community
After the event, the physical artifact – Our Declaration – will travel to museums nationwide, amplifying youth voice and ensuring that the next 250 years of America are shaped by the generation inheriting it.
FOR PRESS, BRANDS AND SUPPORTERS
Please contact Alex Edgar at Alex@HistoryMadeByUs.org for our press kit, sponsorship information and other partnership inquiries.
Speakers and Performers
Producers & Partners
FAQ
Who is participating?
What about people over 30?
What if I don’t feel proud of America right now?
Explore Youth250
Youth250 is the dynamic, nonpartisan initiative to capture young people's imaginations, ideas and input as the United States turns 250 years old in 2026.