‘Illinois Voices 250’ with Illinois Humanities and StoryCorps Studios
•April 22, 2026•
The Illinois America 250 Commission invites people from across Illinois to participate in Illinois Voices 250, a statewide effort to record conversations with residents as part of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Recorded conversations will be preserved at the U.S. Library of Congress. The initiative is led by the Illinois America 250 Commission in partnership with Illinois Humanities and StoryCorps Studios. Illinois Voices 250 is the most expansive effort yet to ensure Illinois’ commemoration of the nation’s birthday is inclusive, accessible, and statewide. People can participate in public community recording events happening around the state or use the do-it-yourself option online at il250.org/il-voices. There is no fee to participate. “The story of America isn’t complete without the story of Illinois. Our people’s diverse perspectives, reflections, and personal narratives deserve to be shared and preserved for generations to come,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I encourage Illinoisans of all backgrounds to tell their unique stories as the nation marks 250 years of history and resilience.”