March 2026 Newsletter – The Forgotten Freedom: American Assembly at 250
On March 5, we open The Forgotten Freedom: American Assembly at 250 with an evening preview reception at the Museum, and I truly cannot wait for you to see it!
As we approach America’s 250th birthday, many reflections will focus on the Declaration of Independence; those bold words written just blocks from our Museum. Built upon that foundation is our Constitution and the First Amendment, which protect the right of the people to assemble and actually live out those ideals.
The Declaration declares. The Constitution organizes. Assembly activates.
And here in Philadelphia, we understand assembly instinctively. We gather in stadiums by the tens of thousands to cheer on our local sports teams — GO BIRDS! We pack arenas and sing in unison with our favorite musicians and performers. We convene in taverns, in churches, and on street corners to strengthen the fabric of our communities. This exhibition brings to life artifacts and memorabilia from these facets of daily life (including my own Girl Scout vest from White Lake, Michigan) to help tell the story of assembly in America.
Assembly is not only protest, though protest matters deeply. It is also belonging.
For 250 years, Americans have practiced liberty by gathering. Liberty lives not only in documents, but in people who show up.
I hope you will join us.
Warmly,
Alaine K Arnott
