Uniting Local Voices for a Stronger America: Chicago’s Contribution to the Us@250 Movement

By

Vanessa Rangel

and

Theodore Johnson

Introduction

The current election year and increasingly polarizing political climate have taken a toll on many, deepening divisions among states, towns, even households. Now, more than ever, it's important to highlight the resilience and richness of our local communities and cultivate ways to think through solutions together, rather than against one another.

On July 4, 2026, the United States will mark its 250th anniversary and the ratification of the Declaration of Independence. With this approaching milestone, it's a pivotal moment for Americans to reflect on the nation's past, present, and future.

New America's Us@250 initiative is dedicated to this reflection, advocating for a reimagined American narrative built around three core concepts: pride in the nation's progress from its origins, reckoning with historical and contemporary wrongs that have prevented the nation from living up to its ideals, and aspiration for a multiracial, inclusive democracy rooted in equality, fairness, and opportunity for all.

Nationally, Ted Johnson and the Us@250 initiative provide a unifying framework for the semiquincentennial, hosting an annual fellowship and organizing a network of individuals, organizations, and programs that champion this vision. New America Chicago is proud to contribute to this effort by engaging our local network, bringing together diverse voices to discuss pressing community issues, share experiences, and spark meaningful dialogue. The Chicago Us@250 series will amplify the voices of our city, bringing local stories and solutions to a national stage. Together, we will confront shared struggles, exchange ideas, and work toward policy solutions that build a more equitable and thriving country.

Bringing the National Conversation to Chicago

This fall and winter, CivicSpace, a New America Chicago program, is providing mini grants to two local organizations to host inclusive community conversations that build connections across the vibrant communities of Chicago. Focusing on the aspirational portion of the Us@250 theme, our local partners will hear from low and middle income communities what they need to reach their version of the American Dream for themselves, their families, and their neighborhoods.

Join Us and Explore Chicago's Past while Aspiring for the Future with Shermann "Dilla" Thomas - November 16th

Local historian Shermann "Dilla" Thomas and Chicago Mahogany, LLC will lead tours through three culturally significant neighborhoods: Bronzeville, North Lawndale and Pilsen. Through the power of storytelling, these tours hope to foster a sense of pride and community while also bringing together people who may not normally cross paths to discuss the problems people face within these neighborhoods. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future, it's essential to create spaces where people can connect with others and everyone's perspectives are heard and valued.

Dilla has become a social media sensation, going viral on Tiktok. His 60-second videos dedicated to preserving and disseminating the rich cultural history of Chicago have been viewed over 20 million times, and he has amassed a following of 210K followers across all social media platforms.

Space is limited so registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact Vanessa Rangel, [email protected].

Date: Saturday, November 16thTimes: 9:30am, 12:15pm, 2:35pmMeeting Location: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington Street Chicago, IL 60602Cost: $12 per tour (normally $45)Register Today

Community and Conversation with The Center for Changing Lives

Event details are still being finalized and will be shared on the website soon.