Honor America’s 250th Anniversary by Building a Better Future for Your Community

The ACLU of New Jersey is working to build a future that is inclusive and expansive: a democracy where every person – no matter their background, beliefs, or identity – can live freely and with dignity. For over 60 years, we have defended liberty and justice guided by the vision of a fair and equitable New Jersey for all, because that’s what everyone in our state and across the country deserves.

As we mark the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, we invite you to join us both in reflecting on America’s complex history and imagining what a better future for your community could look like.

Together, what do all of us dare to create?

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Start a “Banned Books” book club and read historically banned books.
• Host a potluck and invite a few neighbors you don’t know well (yet!).
• Volunteer at your local library or food pantry.
• Organize a litter pick-up at a local park.
• Buy from small businesses and spread the word about local treasures.
• Organize a chalk art competition on your block.
• Attend a local street fair and try a food or drink you have never tried before.
• Share art that inspires you with your loved ones and ask what inspires them.
• Bake a sweet treat and give it to a neighbor, just because!

• Call or email your elected officials (it really does make a difference!).
• Hold protest signs on a freeway overpass or town green.
• Tell lawmakers to protect New Jerseyans’ voting rights and pass the John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act of New Jersey.
• Create and display original art that makes a statement and expresses your feelings.
• Donate to an organization you respect and admire for the good they do for their community.
• Support independent journalism to hold those in power accountable.
• Amplify local pro-democracy voices on social media.
• Urge Congress to shut down the ICE detention machine.
• Write a letter to the editor of your local paper about an issue that matters to you.
• Run for your school board or town council.
• Read (or re-read!) the Bill of Rights.
• Become a People Power volunteer.

• Double check your voter registration and make sure all your friends do, too!
• Apply to become a poll worker in New Jersey.
• Volunteer to get out the vote for the general election on November 3, 2026 (ask your favorite local candidates how you can help).

• Donate to a local food pantry.
• Start a neighborhood text chain or email newsletter to keep everyone informed of local needs and opportunities for service Take the No Kings “Eyes on ICE” online training.
• Start a diaper drive to collect supplies for families in need.
• Volunteer with a local organization working to protect and empower communities.

Together, all of us can work to build a safer, stronger, and more just future for everyone who calls this country home.