MJCH Presents - The Shared Voice: A Historic Reading and Garden Party!

We invite YOU to a National Community-Based Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence & Garden Party at MJCH!

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026

• Time: 5:00 PM

• Location: Museum of Jersey City History (MJCH), 298 Academy Street

• Hosted by: The Museum of Jersey City History Board Members in collaboration with The Jersey City Poetry Festival and Speranza Theater Company 

• RSVP or Volunteer to Read: Email us at info@mjchistory.org

Join neighbors, musicians, poets, families, students, veterans, civic leaders, and local organizations for a historic event at the Museum of Jersey City History. Participate in a NATIONWIDE shared public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

This community gathering is an opportunity to come together in a spirit of reflection, civic fellowship, and renewed commitment to the ideals of liberty, equality, self-government, and the common good.

Following the reading, step inside to see these words come to life in our immersive USA250 exhibition – The Enduring Promise: The Declaration of Independence at 250. Afterward, head outside for a festive Garden Party featuring live music, poetry, special Liberty Hot Dogs, and some exciting surprises!

What to Expect

• A Shared Voice: We will begin with a brief welcoming program followed by a community reading of the Declaration of Independence. Sections will be shared among volunteers of all ages and backgrounds so that many voices can take part.

• History Brought to Life: Meet revolutionary figures Jane Tuers and Molly Pitcher, portrayed live by the talented actors of the Speranza Theatre Company!

• Poetry & Music: Enjoy inspiring performances by young local students reciting foundational, tenant works of poetry, live music from local performers such as local Jersey Boy, Marc Del Giudice (and others to be announced soon!) capturing the essence of black history and American music tradition-curated by Melida Rodas, MJCH Board Member / Poet Laureate of Jersey City / founder of The Jersey City Poetry Festival. 

• An Inclusive Space: This is a nonpartisan, community-centered event open to everyone. Whether you come to read, listen, volunteer, or simply stand with your neighbors, your presence helps make this a meaningful moment of remembrance and renewal.

How to Participate

• Attend & Invite: Join the reading and bring your friends, family, and neighbors.

• Volunteer to Read: Step up to read a short section of the Declaration during the event.

• Spread the Word: Share this invitation with local schools, libraries, civic groups, houses of worship, veterans’ organizations, and neighborhood associations.

Ready to join us? To sign up as a reader or let us know you're coming, email us at jcpofest@gmail.com

Let us read together, reflect together, and carry forward the work of fulfilling our nation’s enduring promise.

Other Ways to Support Us

Make a Donation

Donations of any size help sustain our work, preserve our local heritage, and expand our community programming.

Become a Sponsor

We welcome sponsorships from individuals, families, and local businesses who want to invest in local history and culture.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Volunteer

Interested in helping out at events, museum programs, or special projects? We would love to have you on team MJCH!

Get Involved

• Email: info@mjchistory.org

• Instagram: @museumjchistory

Thank you for helping preserve and celebrate Jersey City's history for future generations.