CALL FOR ART - WE The People: The Promised Explored

DEADLINE: March 15th 

OUR Project Partners:  Revolution NJ,

The Museum of Jersey City History and

The Hudson Scholar

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jersey City Poetry Festival

Announces A New Collaborative Exhibitionat The Museum of Jersey City History

Jersey City, NJ — The Jersey City Poetry Festival is proud to announce a new collaboration with the Museum of Jersey City History that will unite poetry, history, and community voices in a major upcoming exhibition, opening in late spring (date forthcoming).

Through immersive design, multimedia elements, and participatory installations, the exhibition will explore themes central to the American experience—identity, freedom, equality, civic responsibility, and the power of the written and spoken word—inviting visitors to reflect on both our past and our shared future.

JCPOFESTCall for Testimonials & Creative Work

DEADLINE 3/15/26

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Honoring 250 Years of American Independence

As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, we invite all poets, writers, students, elders, artists, and community members to submit original work reflecting on America’s past, present, and future.

We warmly invite dignitaries, elected officials, civic leaders, and members of the cultural community to participate in and support this important public initiative.

Submissions may explore:

• The meaning of independence and freedom today

• The ongoing pursuit of justice and equality

• Civic life, belonging, and community

• Hopes for the next 250 years

We welcome:

• Poetry (written or spoken word)

• Short prose and memoir

• Visual art (2D or digital)

• Multimedia / film poems

• Interdisciplinary works

• Oral testimonies (pre-recorded or recorded on-site by appointment)

Selected works will be featured in the exhibition and

The Annual - Jersey City Poetry Festival.

This call is inspired by the enduring promise articulated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who reminded the nation that the founding ideals were a promissory note—one that called America to live up to its words and extend justice and freedom to everyone. Nearly two and a half centuries after the Declaration was signed, that promise continues to challenge, guide, and inspire us.

“This collaboration is about creating space for dialogue,”

~ James Dievler, President of the Museum of Jersey City History.

"History isn't just behind us—we are making it just as we make our own lives. So it’s in our hands. Don't let your story be defined by others or lost to silence. This is a chance to speak your voice into the world and shape it." 

~ I. Buenaventura, a.k.a Patrick, Producer, Jersey City Poetry Festival

“We hope this exhibition reflects not only our history, but the living voices of Jersey City today — We the people ~ of all ages, immigrants, elders, and children. From the shores of the Hudson River and Liberty State Park, we gaze upon the Statue of Liberty — the mother of immigrants — who continues to inspire hope, courage, and new beginnings. This is an open invitation to share your story and be part of something that brings our community together through art, memory, and reflection.”

~ Melida Rodas, Founder, Jersey City Poetry Festival (JCPOFEST.org)

APPLY HERE:

For more information, press inquiries or partnership opportunities,

please contact jcpofest@gmail.com