Events › Handwriting the Constitution and Declaration of Independence

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, visitors are invited to handwrite the Declaration and the US Constitution in the Courtyard of the Central Library in Copley Square. This program aims to create time and a quiet space to reflect and deepen one's understanding of these historic documents. 

All supplies will be provided. Participants will first stop by the supply table to pick up writing supplies and copies of the Constitution and/or Declaration of Independence. Reproductions of John Adams's personal copy of the Constitution held by Special Collections will also be available to transcribe. 

This program is self-paced. Patrons are invited to stay for the whole session or simply stay as long as they would like.

About Handwriting the Constitution 

Handwriting the Constitution is a social art project begun in 2017 by artist Morgan O'Hara. It invites people from all walks of life to meet in public spaces to handwrite the US Constitution or other documents written to protect human rights and freedoms. This art practice was created so that people will know their rights, deepen their understanding of laws created to protect these rights, and to help resist negative thinking.

The goal of this art practice is to encourage people to hold their own Handwriting sessions on a recurring basis; to create a physical and psychological space that explores the practice of concentrated writing as an art form, and a process designed to bring people together in a quiet and calming way, all by focusing on human rights. It has been identified as a powerful and transformative form of activism for introverts. 

Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, contact the department listed in the "Contact Info" pane on the right. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange accommodation.