Sing Democracy 250

Who We Are

In a world where division seems to be the norm, we stand united.

We are musicians, singers, artists, and advocates, all bound by the belief that music can bridge the gaps and mend the divides.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to bring people together, to celebrate our shared humanity, and to recommit to the promise of a "more perfect union."

Founded by Gary Aamodt and Celia Ellingson, Together In Hope Project, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit organization, serves as the driving force behind Sing Democracy 250.

“This is our time, to reclaim the American dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth, that, out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope.”

— Barack Obama

What We Are Doing

Sing Democracy 250 aims to ignite a nationwide movement. From every state in this nation, the power of song will ring out in 2026, a symphony of unity and hope, echoing the words of the Declaration of Independence.

We invite high school, college and community choirs from every state to join us in 2026, to lend their voices to the cause and carry the torch of democracy forward through a specially-designed music program.

Beginning with the world premiere of this new music in July 2025 in Philadelphia, anchored by the Together In Hope Choir, we will connect Americans to our history and the promise of our democracy.

But our journey doesn't end there.

We want to inspire the future, to cultivate a new generation of citizens who embrace their responsibilities and believe in the transformative potential of democracy.

Why We Are Doing It

Today, the viability of democracy faces unprecedented threats.  Global freedom is under attack, both by rising autocracies and major democracies faltering from within.

In this pivotal moment, we, as Americans, must show that our democracy can and will endure, inspire, and progress.

Together, we will Sing Democracy 250 - a movement of resilience, a chorus of hope, and a celebration of the values that define us as Americans.

Why Music?

Music is a universal language, one that transcends cultural boundaries and can unite people of different backgrounds. Throughout history, music has played a crucial role in social movements. From protest songs to anthems of solidarity, music has been used to express dissent, promote unity, and inspire change.  Music has the power to connect people and create a stronger community. 

It is our hope that Sing Democracy 250 will inspire Americans to do their part to strengthen this democracy. Democracy depends on all of us.  We, the people, are the key. This is our time to fulfill democracy’s promise.

The power of democracy is in the voice of its people, and every voice matters.