Exploring 250 years of the nation’s cultural life and imagining its shared future.
To mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Maryland Humanities is joining the national initiative, By the People: Conversations Beyond 250.
By the People: Conversations Beyond 250 is a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
We’re celebrating the richness of Maryland’s history, community, and voices by hosting Revolution, Reaction, and Reform: From Maryland’s Past to Our Shared Future, a series of six community gatherings marking Maryland’s 250th anniversary.
This series invites Marylanders to explore how we arrived at this moment and collectively shape where we go next. The series unfolds through three powerful themes that move from remembering our history to reimagining our future.
Revolution, Reaction, and Reform
Revolution explores key moments that changed Maryland. Through two designed activities (one at a museum and another at a historic site), we’ll use the power of place to uncover the events, movements, and turning points that made Maryland what it is today.
Reaction examines how Marylanders have responded to upheaval, progress, and persistent challenges across generations. First, we’ll spotlight Maryland History Day students and their work on contemporary social issues, showing how young people are already responding to the challenges we face. Then, we’ll host an interactive community gathering using an everyday experience to showcase how the humanities can help us understand people’s experiences.
Reform turns toward the future by asking the most important question: What Maryland do we want to build together? This theme invites you to imagine Maryland’s next 50 years through community panels, reflective essays, and hands-on activities. These activities serve as opportunities to envision alternatives grounded in your wisdom, your experiences, and our collective aspirations for Maryland.
These six gatherings create space for your voice, your vision, and your ideas. Join us in this journey.
Events
See below for the schedule of events for our series, Revolution, Reaction, and Reform: From Maryland’s Past to Our Shared Future.
Accokeek Foundation
January 24, 2026
Location: Accokeek Foundation
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Description: Our first gathering, “Reimagining Revolution,” will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Accokeek Foundation. This workshop invites participants to reflect on the past, connect with the present, and consider future possibilities through engaging discussions and hands-on activities. The session will explore ideas and movements that have shaped our region and nation, highlighting diverse voices and perspectives.
Light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited to 30 participants, and registration is required. See our event page for more information.