RSVPs for this event are no longer being accepted.

July 4, 2026 will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historical marker arrives at a moment of strain for American democracy, as political polarization deepens and the public trust shifts.

Join WTTW and Chicago Votes for this screening and discussion event centered on Firsthand: Democracy, the acclaimed docuseries produced by WTTW. During this event, we will screen the Firsthand: Democracy episode featuring Camille Williams of Chicago Votes. Prior to the screening, executive producer Dan Protess and Pat Odom, Firsthand: Democracy producer will provide an overview of the series and the filming of Camille’s story.

Following the screening, a panel discussion featuring Camille Williams, Senior Programs Manager and Diversity Equity Inclusion and Accessibility Lead at Chicago Votes. The conversation will focus on creating an inclusive democracy: winning voting rights for the incarcerated, supporting court observers, and urging Americans to take an active role in the democratic process.

This event is open to the public, and offers a unique opportunity to engage with residents and thought leaders as they reflect on strengthening our democracy.

Visit the FIRSTHAND website to explore the project. WTTW is proud to partner with Braver Angels, Illinois America 250, Illinois Humanities and Mikva Challenge throughout 2026 on community engagement initiatives related to Firsthand: Democracy.

Major support for FIRSTHAND: DEMOCRACY is provided by the Julian Grace Foundation, the Edwardson Family Foundation, and the Lohengrin Foundation. Additional support is provided by the Alvin H. Baum Family Fund, Nancy Clark, Sylvia Furner, and the Marc and Jeanne Malnati Family Foundation.