Introduction
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress unanimously ratified the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration affirmed and justified that the Thirteen Colonies were free and independent states, no longer under British rule. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of this nation’s founding document, the Boston Public Library’s programming theme in 2026 is Revolutionary Ideas: Boston 250, a yearlong exploration of the art, activism, and energy that highlights the revolutionary thought and innovation that has evolved since 1776. As part of this year of revolutionary programming, the BPL's Community History Department is partnering with Revolutionary Spaces to offer a program series titled Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness (LLPoH).
Writing Your Own Declaration
As part of this programming, our Writing Your Own Declaration workshops invite you to dive deep into self-exploration through public writing. Read, discuss, and draw inspiration from declarative writing throughout history. Then, reflect on your own values and compose your own “declaration of self.” Participants can loan their declarations for a Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness exhibition. Contributing to the exhibition is entirely optional. Loaned works will be displayed first in the Old South Meeting House or Old State House, and then in the Central Library in Copley Square.
If you cannot make it to the in-person workshops, you can still take part in this program and exhibition! We have created a self-paced guide you can follow at home.
Exhibition
In Summer 2026, Boston Public Library’s Community History Department and Revolutionary Spaces are co-curating an exhibition focused on revolutionary writing and printmaking. Historical declarations and prints will be displayed along with participants' works created during the LLPoH series.
Workshop participants have the option to loan their declarations for display in the exhibition (note that this is an option, not a requirement).
Submitting your Declaration
Submit your completed declaration by Friday, May 15, 2026, through this submission and application form. BPL staff will review all submissions on a rolling basis by the week of May 25, 2026. Please note that submission does not guarantee that your declaration will be included in the final display.
Submission Guidelines
- The declaration must be no longer than 500 words
- Must be submitted as a PDF
- The declaration must comply with the BPL’s Appropriate Use Policy
- Please write in first person, using “I” statements (“I hope…” “I think…” etc.)
- The declaration can be written in a language other than English, but must have an English translation submitted as well
- All submitted work must be entirely original and must not infringe on the copyright, trademark, or intellectual property rights of any other individual or entity.
Suggestions
We are looking for declarations that:
- Focus on one topic
- Include your opinion, belief, or views on the topic
- Include your intentions or objectives to create change
- Explain how your personal experiences shaped your views
- Are clear and concise
- Showcase your voice and personality
Questions?
Just ask! For questions about the Writing Your Own Declaration workshop or the Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness exhibition, please email communityhistory@bpl.org.
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