Tampa Voices, America’s Story: Be Part of 250
With the nation’s 250th birthday just two months away, the City of Tampa is inviting residents of all ages to help tell America’s story through their own words.
"The Art of the Pen," is a community-wide writing celebration inspired by the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Leading into Tampa’s Fourth of July event, Liberty by the Bay, this initiative calls on poets, storytellers, and first-time writers alike to reflect on what America at 250 years means to them.
Participants are invited to submit original poems, short stories, or essays inspired by the language and themes of the Declaration of Independence. Writers can choose from a series of prompts that incorporate historic phrases such as "When in the course of human events" and "We mutually pledge to each other," or build their piece around core American ideals like justice, honor, and happiness.
Submissions must be up to 500 words for short stories or essays or up to 150 words for poems.
Whether someone writes regularly or has never shared their work before, the goal is simple: elevate Tampa’s voices and perspectives as part of this historic milestone.
"The Art of the Pen" is part of the City’s broader lead-up to Liberty by the Bay, Tampa’s big Fourth of July waterfront celebration featuring a drone show, fireworks, live entertainment, and community activities.
This year’s event carries added significance as it aligns with the nation’s semi-quincentennial, 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Through this writing celebration, the City aims to complement the sights and sounds of July 4th with something lasting: the written reflections of the people who call Tampa home.
Writers can learn more about prompts, guidelines, and submission details by visiting:
tampa.gov/artofthepen