Americans Imagine the Future Together Through National Wish Wall

c/o Made By Us

Last month, Eloquence Academy concluded its Wish Wall. The initiative was made possible by generous grant support from the Karma for Cara Foundation and partnerships with Civic Season, Made By Us, and the New York Historical.

For nearly two months, community members were invited to add wishes for the next 50 years, from small acts of kindness to big visions for change. Despite being prompted by the same two-word phrase, “I wish…,” responses varied widely in scale and perspective and poured in from across the country, from California to New York. A selection of anonymous responses that represent the breadth and depth of engagement include:

“Everyone is able to stay safe and war is avoided in the future.”

“For the free speech and democracy promised at our nation’s founding.”

“To decrease polarization, recognizing shared values and humanity first and foremost.”

Since the summer of 2025, over 135 Wish Walls have been planned and held, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History to smaller, local hosts. The full scope of responses will be studied to identify recurring themes and emerging priorities. Eloquence Academy will effectively center its future programming around the needs, interest, and well-being of youth. Ultimately, the initiative reflected an optimism and belief in the possibility of creating change by imagining a brighter future together.

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Eloquence Academy, Inc. is the world’s largest youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing equitable academic debate opportunities for rural and Title 1 students. The Academy has offered live debate programs for 3,600 students, partnerships with 122 schools and nonprofit organizations, and online resources for 20,000 learners. Bolstered by 225 volunteers, it has prepared students across all 50 states and 102 countries for college readiness, career engagement, and community impact. Follow on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.