We Declare is a storytelling project for these times. In the lead-up to July 4, 2026, participating local writers have created short pieces in response to brief phrases taken directly from the Declaration of Independence. These personal stories are not editorials, but provide a snapshot into this moment in American history, a period with uncanny parallels to 1776.

At a time when our federal government threatens to silence and censor free speech, We Declare is an act of rebellion to speak out; when they seek to divide us, we stand together; when they spread hate, we listen to one another with love and respect. The stories amplify compelling voices with the goal of building greater community through increased understanding and empathy.

2026 marks two anniversaries: the 250th of the Declaration of Independence, and the 20th of Ellen Schmidt’s Ithaca-based Writing Room community. From across the US and 15 countries, more than 100 people have participated in Ellen Schmidt’s classes. Some have moved far away, we’ve seen each other through illnesses, births, deaths and a pandemic. We’ve learned the power of expressing ourselves and listening deeply to one another through the gift of writing. Now we invite you to share in this powerful experience.

This program is made possible in part with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant program from the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of the office of the Governor and NYS Legislature, administered by the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County.