Why Make Public

The first time I encountered a manifesto was in high school art class – it was either the Declaration of Futurism or the De Stijl manifesto. The act of collective expression struck me. I remember the sensation of calm respect and the fire of possibility that came from this group coming together, not just physically, but intellectually and emotionally, to make a clear and powerful statement. 

Manifestos signal the genesis of something new – a declaration of intent, the foundation for a movement. They distill grand, abstract ambitions into clear principles and actionable guidance. They serve as declarations of purpose, a sharable manifest to inspire change and action. An appeal to do things differently, to start and be part of a movement. 

By writing down their ambitions and modes of conduct, they create both a boundary and a portal: "This is what we stand for, if you share this vision, join us ." They can be poetic or actionable, transforming something abstract into steps that form a path, pointing the way forward and showing us how to follow, guiding the movement not just in thought, but in direction.

Every movement needs believers. A manifesto is that rallying cry, recognizing that even a few dedicated individuals, united by conviction and faith, can begin to manifest the seemingly impossible into reality.

April 13, 2025