The Chicago Council on Global Affairs will host the America at 250 Global Forum on June 18, 2026, at Convene Willis Tower in Chicago, bringing together policymakers, scholars, business leaders, and thought leaders to reflect on America's past and inform its future. The forum will examine the sources of America's global power and influence as the United States marks its 250th anniversary, with discussions covering geopolitics, economics, democracy, human rights, and artificial intelligence. The event will be available via live stream for those unable to attend in person.

More than 30 speakers will participate in a series of discussions, including Princeton University Professor G. John Ikenberry, former US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, and University of Chicago Professor Raghuram Rajan. Topics will include America's role as a global economic power, its significance as an immigrant nation, the state of its democracy, and its future as an AI innovator. The forum is supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, with community support from the Pritzker Military Museum & Library.

Key sessions include "The Indispensable Nation?" assessing American power, "The State of American Democracy" evaluating the democratic project, and "Shockwaves: The Global Economy in Disarray" examining forces reshaping global trade. Other discussions will focus on human rights, immigration, food security, and AI leadership. Knowledge partners include Northwestern University's Roberta Buffett Institute for Global Affairs and the University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy.

Admission is free for Council members, while nonmembers may register for $199, which includes a one-year Council membership. The event is open to the public, and registration details are available on the Chicago Council on Global Affairs' website. The forum aims to inform decisions that will shape America's next 250 years by bringing together diverse perspectives on critical global issues.