Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. Thomas Jefferson wrote these simple and profound words almost 250 years ago in the Declaration of Independence, but what do they mean to YOU NOW in 2025? I’m joining with WUOT and the Big Ears Festival to invite you to share your vision of what these beautiful ideals — Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness — mean to you… today and for the future. Release these concepts from historical narratives, and from any political and social agendas. The focus is on recognizing and celebrating our shared humanity, and harnessing our vision, intention and actions to create a bright American future.

To participate, send in a short personal essay in written, audio or video form. We’ll choose some of your submissions to feature here on the radio and also at a performance during the Big Ears Festival on March 29. For more information and submission guidelines, visit The Declaration Project.org. The submission deadline is March 18, and I’m really looking forward to hearing from you.

- Lara Downes