Have you seen Hamilton, the musical? Heard the soundtrack? Can you hear it in your head right now?
It’s an energetic and captivating retelling of the life of Alexander Hamilton, one of the United States’ founding fathers. The musicality of the lyrics is infectious, drawing the audience in as we journey through his personal and political life. I often find myself singing snippets from the soundtrack: “I am not throwing away my shot,” “He will never be satisfied,” and “Why do you write like you’re running out of time?”
For me, those lyrics also echo the energy I imagine in our Baptist foremothers and forefathers as they fought for religious liberty—driven, determined, and unwilling to remain silent.
This year, on July 4, 2026, the United States of America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is a momentous occasion—one that invites us to remember our nation’s history in its fullness, acknowledging both the sorrow and injustice, as well as the growth and progress worth celebrating.
Throughout the coming year, we will share opportunities to engage this history—both as a nation and as Baptists. The first of these is coming up soon, on March 1. Prior to the Advocacy in Action Conference in Washington, D.C. (learn more here: https://cbf.swoogo.com/advocacy2026), a group will gather for a pre-conference tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture- a timely remembrance on the heels of celebrating Black History Month. The tour will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, and you are invited! (You do not need to be registered for Advocacy in Action to attend.)
Toward the end of Hamilton, Alexander’s widow, Eliza, sings, “And when you’re gone, who remembers your name? Who keeps your flame? Who tells your story?” She goes on to describe how she carries forward the work he began: “I put myself back in the narrative. I stop wasting time on tears. I live another fifty years. It’s not enough.”
Hamilton’s legacy does not end with his death. Eliza—and others—continue to tell his story. Even more powerful is the song’s turn towards Eliza’s own creative and purposeful service to others in her life after his death, leaving a lasting mark on history.
As we commemorate our nation’s history and our Baptist story this year, may we remember those who committed themselves to the causes of freedom and religious liberty. May we learn from their courage—and then, like Eliza, step back into the narrative to create stories of our own that make a difference.
If you would like to join the March 1 tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, please contact us at Office@cbfva.org. And be on the lookout for more opportunities throughout this anniversary year.