City invites residents to join nationwide America 250 poster project celebrating history and community identity

Rochester, New York – Residents in Rochester are being invited to take part in a creative effort tied to a major national milestone, as city officials launch a local call for artwork connected to America’s upcoming 250th birthday.

The City of Rochester announced it is participating in the America 250 City Art Poster Project, a nationwide initiative aimed at marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The program is being organized by the U.S. Conference of Mayors in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, bringing communities across the country into a shared celebration through local artistic expression.

City leaders say the project is not only about history, but also about reflection and imagination. The goal is to encourage residents to explore what the nation’s past means to them while also thinking ahead to the future of democracy and civic life.

“As we celebrate 250 years of American history, this poster contest is an opportunity to honor our shared values, tell our local stories, and imagine the next chapter of our democracy,” said Malik D. Evans. “Whether you are a professional artist or a resident moved by the subject matter, I encourage you to participate.”

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Organizers are asking residents to submit original poster designs that capture civic pride, a sense of historical connection, and hope for the next 250 years. The city plans to showcase the top 25 entries on its official website, offering artists public recognition and a platform to share their work with a broader audience.

From those submissions, Rochester will select one poster to represent the city at the national level. That chosen piece will be displayed during the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ 94th Annual Meeting, scheduled for June 4 through June 7, 2026, in Long Beach. Officials say this opportunity gives local artists a chance to be part of a nationwide story while highlighting Rochester’s identity.

Participation is open to residents of all ages and backgrounds who live within Rochester’s official municipal boundaries. City officials note that eligibility is determined by whether a person’s address falls within the city limits, not by ZIP codes. Residents unsure about their status can verify their address using the city’s online property information tool.

The project also encourages collaboration. Individuals may work alone or partner with schools, libraries, recreation centers, nonprofit groups, or community organizations. City leaders say this approach is meant to foster shared creativity and strengthen community ties while allowing people to express their perspectives through art.

There are clear guidelines for submissions. Posters must remain nonpartisan and cannot include political messaging or inflammatory language. Instead, participants are encouraged to focus on themes connected to Rochester’s local history, its diverse communities, and its collective identity.

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Officials believe this emphasis on unity and storytelling will help create artwork that reflects both pride in the past and optimism about the future. They also see the initiative as a way to engage residents who might not typically participate in civic programs.

Artists must submit their completed posters along with an application form by 11:59 p.m. EST on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. City leaders are urging interested participants not to wait until the final days, noting that early submissions can help ensure all requirements are met.

As preparations continue nationwide for America’s 250th anniversary, Rochester officials say the poster project offers something simple but powerful—a chance for residents to share their voices visually, connect with their community’s story, and contribute to a historic national celebration.