America in Rainbow

It is with deep reverence for our nation and an unbridled sense of hope for our community that we announce this year’s theme, America in Rainbow. This theme resonates powerfully as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. As is tradition at moments of such significance, we are called to celebrate not only the country we are, but the ideals upon which it was founded, and the ongoing work required to realize them fully. The promise of America has always rested on a shared belief in freedom, dignity, and opportunity, and on the responsibility each generation carries to help extend that promise to all.

The history of the United States is complex it is still unfolding. Yet what has always made this nation exceptional is our collective ability to imagine something greater: a more inclusive future, a broader definition of belonging, and a brighter horizon. It is this enduring vision of a “rainbow on the hill,” one that shines on all of us, that continues to move America forward.

LGBTQ+ Americans have long been part of this story, from the nation’s earliest days to its ongoing pursuit of liberty and justice. Through courage, advocacy, and leadership, unknown heroes to trailblazers such as Gerry Studds and Barney Frank expanded representation within our democratic institutions, helping to ensure that LGBTQ+ lives and voices were recognized as integral to the American experiment. Their work stands alongside that of Stonewall-era activists such as Marsha P. Johnson and Moms Mabley, cultural and literary icons like James Baldwin, legal advocates including Mary Bonauto, and allies such as retired Justice Margaret Marshall. Together, their contributions reflect a tradition of civic engagement that has strengthened democracy by demanding that it serve more of its people more fully.

Democracy is not static. It requires participation, vigilance, and storytelling. Today, it calls on all of us to stand up, to reclaim our shared narrative through education, activism, and civic duty, and to continue pressing the nation to live up to its highest ideals.

As we commemorate 250 years of American history, we honor both the progress made and the work that remains. This moment invites reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to a nation where freedom and prosperity are not aspirations for some, but realities for all.

Stay tuned for more information about our upcoming spring and summer exhibitions, activations, and programs throughout the year. We hope you will join us in celebrating this nation and in taking an active role in safeguarding the democratic pillars upon which it depends. We invite you to sign up for updates and to support our special $250,000 campaign, which will sustain the work of the museum throughout this anniversary year and through June 2027.