Ohio Communities to Unite for “Sharing the Spirit of America” Declaration of Independence Readings on July 8

COLUMBUS, Ohio (July 7, 2026) — America 250-Ohio today announced that communities across the state will gather on Wednesday, July 8, at 6:00 p.m. EST for Sharing the Spirit of America, a nationwide initiative featuring simultaneous public readings of the Declaration of Independence.

Hosted by local organizations, civic groups, and community leaders, the event will bring Ohioans together in parks, town squares, community centers, and other public spaces to reflect on the principles of self-government and civic engagement that have shaped the nation since its founding.

“The Declaration of Independence is truly a statement of principles that has inspired generations of Americans,” said Todd Kleismit, executive director of America 250-Ohio. “Sharing the Spirit of America provides an opportunity to reflect on its enduring message and the role each of us plays in preserving our democratic traditions.”

The event’s July 8 date carries historical significance. Although the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, it was first publicly read to citizens on July 8 in Philadelphia’s State House Yard, now known as Independence Hall. That reading marked the moment many Americans first heard about the colonies’ break from British rule.

As the first text to coin the phrase “The United States of America” and the first successful document of its kind in history, the Declaration of Independence set a revolutionary global precedent. More than half of the countries currently represented at the United Nations have a founding document that can be called a declaration of independence.

Organizers invite residents of all ages to attend, participate, and explore the Declaration’s lasting impact on American democracy. Hundreds of locations are participating across the United States with more than 20 in Ohio, including Cleveland, Kent, Bucyrus, Forest Park, Lima, and Worthington, among others.

For information and a full list of participants, visit america250-ohio.org.

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About America 250-Ohio

In 2026, the United States is celebrating its semiquincentennial, which is the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Each state is creating a celebration and commemoration of this anniversary to reflect the unique character and contributions of each state to the nation over the past 250 years. Ohio is fully embracing this opportunity. Cenovus Energy has signed on as the Visionary Sponsor for Ohio’s statewide programming. The Ohio Commission for the Semiquincentennial (aka America 250-Ohio Commission or AM 250- OH) was created by the Ohio legislature and launched on March 1, 2022. The charge of the Commission is to “…to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the United States and the impact of Ohioans on the nation’s past, present, and future.” — Ohio Revised Code (149.309). More information can be found at America250-Ohio.org.