“Recommitting to Democracy” Program Season Kick-off Festival

Program Season Kick-off: "Recommitting to Democracy: A Sacred & Creative Struggle"
Pay What You Can $0-25 | In-person with bench seating 

In 2026, as the Chapel celebrates its 55th anniversary, the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, beginning our nation’s experiment in realizing an imperfect democracy—governance by the people, for the people. Join us as we open a new programmatic year focused on the roles of art and faith in American democracy, citizenship and civic engagement with a ceremony rooted in sacred connection and energized by the creative spirit. Through inspiring voices, music, and interactive community experiences, you'll leave activated to imagine, connect, and help shape a more just and compassionate world. 

1-4pm – Festival Activities on Plaza 
Sign the larger-than-life "We the People" constitution preamble banner created by Backbone Campaign, explore hands-on creative activities, and get to know community organizations who are expanding and enhancing democracy locally. Community Partners include Align Mind, Children's Museum Houston, FIEL Houston, Houston Toolbank, League of Women Voters of Houston, Nuestra Palabra, and more to be announced!

1:30-2:15pm – Ceremony inside Chapel (Registration Encouraged)
Ceremony presenters include Avery Belyeu (Montrose Center), DACAMERA Young Artists, Rebecca McIlwain (Texas Impact), Sonny Mehta (Riyaaz Qawwali), poet Lupe Mendez, Shaheen Rahman (Islamic Arts Society), Rabbi David Segal (Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty), Cherry Steinwender (Center for the Healing of Racism) and more to be announced!

2:45-3pm – Young Visitors' Story Time in the Welcome House: Sometimes People March
Gather for a reading of Sometimes People March, encouraging reflection on community, empathy, and peaceful participation in democracy.

Learn more about the our full program season "We the People: Art, Faith & the Sacred Work of Democracy"!