Shaping the Future Together
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
It’s an opportunity to reflect, reckon, and reimagine democracy through belonging, voice, and shared power.
Everyday Democracy invites communities nationwide to host inclusive gatherings that build connection, spark civic imagination, and help people practice democracy together.
Our Next 250 Gathering Toolkit
In partnership with libraries and community leaders across the country, Everyday Democracy is creating a free, easy to use Gathering Toolkit to support everyday leaders in hosting inclusive, imaginative civic gatherings.
The toolkit:
- works for hosts with a range of experience
- is adaptable more many settings and group sizes
- centers joy, belonging, and civic imagination
- encourages a shared meal or snacks
- requires no formal facilitation training
How We Support Hosts
- Virtual convenings for hosts to get support and share ideas
- Simple tools and prompts to capture reflections and stories
- National amplification of community insights through a social media campaign
- All support and materials provided in advance of Civic Season (Juneteenth–July 4), when communities across the country are reflecting on democracy, freedom, and belonging
Who will host Our Next 250 Gatherings?
Libraries
Schools
Neighbors
Bookstores
Restaurants
Historical societies
Museums
Community Gardens
Ways to Get Involved
✔️ Host a gathering using the free Our Next 250 Toolkit
✔️ Sign up to receive the toolkit when it launches in May 2026
✔️ Partner with Everyday Democracy to co-design or facilitate a customized gathering
✔️ Engage with the Our Next 250 social media campaign by sharing reflections on what democracy makes possible—and what you want next
✔️ Help spread the word in your networks and communities
Share Your Interest
If you or your community, organization, or campus are interested in hosting or participating in an Our Next 250 Gathering, please share a bit more below. We’re excited to learn from you and explore how we can support your involvement. You can also contact us directly by emailing narrativeandculture@everyday-democracy.org.