On the eve of the Fourth of July, the 250th anniversary of the world’s most famous Declaration of Independence, our foundation reflects on the founding of the United States of America, the world’s oldest modern democracy. But in addition to #America250, on Friday, July 3, we are also celebrating #Nederland445, because later that month marks 445 years since the first modern declaration of independence was signed. A text, moreover, that had everything to do with the Declaration of Independence, despite the two centuries, the ocean, and the cultural divide between ‘1581’ and ‘1776’. This week saw the publication of a book by our chairman, Geerten Waling, titled 'Amerika, dat zijn wij. De Nederlandse invloeden op de founding fathers van de Verenigde Staten' (Prometheus Publishers).

PROGRAM 3 JULY 
- Geerten will speak about his longstanding fascination with the subject as a historical introduction.
- Following that, at our invitation, the American-Dutch historian James Kennedy will deliver the 2026 Independence Address, offering a unique perspective on relations between the two countries and the value of the concept of “independence” in politically challenging times. Despite his concerns, Kennedy refuses to give up his optimism.
- Finally, the Dutch Independence Award 2026 will be presented. The jury, chaired by independent chairperson Han ten Broeke, believes it has once again found a wonderful laureate this year. But we’re keeping the identity a secret for now!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION 
Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
Start: 3:00 PM (ends with drinks, no later than 5:00 PM)
Location: Evangelical Lutheran Congregation (Lutherse Burgwal 7, The Hague)
Tickets: €30,- regular / €15,- juniors up to 25 (coffee/drinks incl.)

Would you like to join us on July 3? Register now!