A group of prominent celebrities released a video reading of Timothy Snyder’s 2017 book, On Tyranny, as a form of counterprogramming to the White House-led celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. Narrated by Sarah Jessica Parker, the video featured actors and activists including Mark Ruffalo, Joan Baez, Kimberlé Crenshaw, Margaret Atwood, Leslie Odom Jr., and Ted Danson.

The stars recited the book’s 20 points, which offer guidance on resisting authoritarian governments. These points include advice such as “do not obey in advance,” “be wary of paramilitaries,” and “practice corporeal politics.”

Snyder’s book urges readers to reflect on historical moments when America’s democratic republic was threatened. In the video, Snyder said, “As I look ahead to this coming November, I see a turning point for our republic, a time where things could turn very well or they could turn very ill indeed.” He emphasized that the book’s lessons are meant to help Americans draw from history to secure a better future.

The reading was released alongside a statement inviting Americans to reject complacency, serving as a pointed message ahead of President Donald Trump’s speech on the National Mall that evening.

Sarah Jessica Parker highlighted the enduring struggle for freedom, stating, “The lesson of America is not that freedom was given. It is that freedom was defended.” She also noted that the Founding Fathers incorporated their understanding of tyranny into the nation’s founding documents, concluding, “The next 250 years begin now.”