State Musical of New Jersey Petition
Citizens of New Jersey
This petition calls on the State of New Jersey to designate The Crossing: A Revolutionary New Musical as its Official State Musical. The work is a sweeping new American musical that reimagines George Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware, illuminating the diverse and often overlooked voices of the Continental Army through a deeply human and emotionally resonant lens.
As a tribute to a defining moment that unfolded on New Jersey soil, the petition argues it is a fitting cultural emblem of the state’s historic legacy and enduring spirit.
Sponsored by
To:
Citizens of New Jersey
From:
[Your Name]
CALL TO THE CITIZENS OF NEW JERSEY
IN SUPPORT OF DESIGNATING “THE CROSSING: A REVOLUTIONARY NEW MUSICAL” AS THE OFFICIAL MUSICAL OF THE STATE
WHEREAS, New Jersey holds a unique and honored place in the history of the American Revolution, serving as the setting for pivotal events that secured American liberty and led to the nation's founding; and
WHEREAS, the lands, towns, farms, roads, and rivers of New Jersey bore witness to more battles and military engagements than any other colony, earning New Jersey its enduring title as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution”; and
WHEREAS, among the most daring and consequential moments of the Revolutionary War was General George Washington’s historic crossing of the Delaware River in December of 1776 and the subsequent victories at Trenton and Princeton, events that renewed the hope of the American cause and altered the course of history; and
WHEREAS, countless men and women from New Jersey—farmers, laborers, merchants, soldiers, and patriots of every station—offered their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the ideals of liberty, many of whose names are known, and many whose contributions remain unsung; and
WHEREAS, the musical work titled “The Crossing: A Revolutionary New Musical” honors these places and individuals—including the forgotten heroes of New Jersey—whose sacrifices helped secure the freedoms enjoyed today; and
WHEREAS, through the powerful medium of music, storytelling, and performance, The Crossing brings to life the spirit of courage, perseverance, and unity that defined the American struggle for independence and continues to inspire generations; and
WHEREAS, the arts play an essential role in preserving and transmitting the history, heritage, and values of a people, and theatrical works that illuminate New Jersey’s Revolutionary past serve both educational and cultural purposes;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the citizens and supporters of the State of New Jersey, respectfully call upon our elected officials to take action by officially recognizing and proclaiming “The Crossing: A Revolutionary New Musical” as the Official Musical of the State of New Jersey.
By signing this petition, we affirm that this recognition honors the enduring legacy of those who fought for liberty on New Jersey soil and celebrates the State’s central role in the nation's founding. We further encourage our communities, educators, and cultural institutions to support artistic works like The Crossing that preserve and promote New Jersey’s rich Revolutionary history.