The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum hosted a discussion as part of a nationwide initiative to commemorate America’s 250th birthday by fostering reflection, civic health, and connection.

America’s 250th Birthday Initiative

The project, led by the National Conference on Citizenship, involves participation from more than 40 states. Cameron Hickey, CEO of the National Conference on Citizenship, said the milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the country’s past, consider its future, and bring people together.

“We’re facing division in this country, and we’re finding it harder to connect. This is a chance to reflect on our past, think about our future, and bring people together,” Hickey said.

Stephen Evans, director of education and public programming at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, said the project aligns with the museum’s mission. “And it really fits with our program, our flagship program, Better Conversations. They work hand in hand. And so having conversations, thinking about the 250 years of our history, where in 1995 and the history of Oklahoma City fits into that,” Evans said.

Evans expressed hope that the initiative would inspire connection and optimism. “When we slow down and have conversations with our neighbors, we realize that there’s a lot to be hopeful for. And what I hope people take away is that they’re not powerless,” Evans said.

All conversations from the initiative will be recorded and uploaded to the National Listening Archive.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.