In 2026, we will celebrate our country’s 250th birthday during a time of unprecedented threats to our Constitution and our Democracy. It’s a time to remember, reflect and recommit—a time to hope, dream and build—a time to show up, stand solid, and lead with strong voices that cannot be silenced.
As poets, writers, and members of the League of Women Voters, we recognize the power of language to connect people—to stir hearts and minds, and to reaffirm the enduring promise of Democracy. Through poetry, we aim to illuminate its beauty, its fragility, and its strength—especially at a time when we can no longer afford to take its core principles for granted.
One way we express our love of country and Democracy is by lifting our voices together. Inspired by artist Niki Johnson’s Pillars of Democracy (shown above), we are compiling a national poetry anthology featuring 100 poems by League members from across the country. To learn more about the artwork that inspired this project, click here.
Timeline
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Submission Deadline
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October 15, 2025
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Selections Finalized
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December 31, 2025
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Advance Orders Begin
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February 14, 2026
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Design, Layout & Production Completed
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April 30, 2026
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Release Date
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June 1, 2026
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The publication will be produced via print-on-demand. Neither Eloisa or I will be receiving any compensation from this project. Once available, local and/or state Leagues will have the opportunity to purchase copies in bulk at cost + shipping for direct sale and local fundraising. Additional details will be shared upon publication.
Presidents, will you please distribute the attached flyer to all local League Presidents and members throughout your state? We hope to have LWV poets from every state represented in our anthology! Thank you in advance for your participation in this project.
Christy Schwan
Co-President LWV Ozaukee & Washington Counties
Treasurer & Board of Directors LWV Wisconsin
Eloisa Gómez
Comité por el Voto Latino, LWV Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Every day, you have the power
to choose our better history--
by opening your hearts and minds,
by speaking up for what you know is right.
-Michelle Obama