Smithsonian to launch lecture series for Declaration of Independence anniversary

The Smithsonian Institution and 25 affiliate organizations will launch the ‘Making History, Making Change’ lecture series in 2026. This initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Running from January to September, the series will feature Smithsonian experts, including curators, scientists, and historians, traveling to various communities to discuss the complexities of the American experience. As part of the ‘Our Shared Future: 250’ program, the series includes an event at the Japanese American National Museum featuring Dr. Anthea Hartig, director of the National Museum of American History, via live video. The program aims to engage participants in reflecting on the principles of the Declaration of Independence and drafting their own declarations for the future.