Project 2026
Make America America Again
Journey to Reclaim the Role of the Citizen in the Political Ecosystem
George Washington’s Farewell Address Initiative
The Washington’s Farewell Address event is one of a number of planned programs that are part of the Americanism and Civic Rituals Initiative of Project Project 2026.
The reading of selected parts of Washington's Farewell speech prompts an assessment of where we are as a nation and generates dialogue as to how to participate in the national journey defined by shared values of being American.
"The name of AMERICAN, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of PATRIOTISM, more than any appellation derived from local distinctions."
George Washington, September 19th, 1796
Background
Washington's Farewell Address is a powerful and relevant document that offers valuable insight and guidance for our nation today. As we confront the challenges of political division, geographical sectionalism, and interference by foreign powers, it is important to pay renewed attention to the counsel of this remarkable founder. By reading and discussing the Farewell Address annually, we can gain a better understanding of the potential threats to our republic and take steps to address them.
Objective
To create a national civic ritual based on George Washington’s Farewell Address that celebrates our constitutional republic while educating citizens about our shared national values and the dangers to the republic. This initiative serves as a framework for examining and exploring citizen-focused interventions to challenges we face as a nation.
When
Starting on February 18, 2025, and periodically in the coming year.
Why
The programs associated with Washington’s Farewell Address provide an opportunity for individuals to share and reflect on their experience of citizenship and to identify opportunities for reclaiming democratic and liberal values in our diverse society. Exploration of the contradictions between what was proclaimed in the founding and the actual social and political circumstances of the lives of many citizens needs to be acknowledged.
What
A public reading and discussion of the Farewell Address on February 18, 2025, will launch the initiative. Various activities will examine Washington's message and citizen action. In coming years, the program will be expanded and will include elected and selected citizens representing local, state, and national levels. Civic dialogue informed by the content of the address, as well as an action plan for a more perfect union, will be key components.
Take Action
Project 2026 invites you to join us in this crucial endeavor. By studying Washington's Farewell Address and embracing the principles of unity, moderation, and vigilance, we can safeguard our republic for future generations. In the coming months, we will more specifically address various aspects of Washington’s warnings and utilize Moonshot Press to engage with others in order to achieve the vision of our democracy.
US Senate: President George Washington’s 1796 Farewell Address. (PdF) About the Reading in the Senate
The Presidency George Washington's Farewell Address C SPAN
President George Washington delivered his farewell address 1796 years ago. Mount Vernon convened a virtual panel to revisit his warnings against threats confronting the young nation. Featured speakers are historians Lindsay Chervinsky and Joseph Ellis as well as CNN’s John Avlon