Only 12 people decide what goes on a U.S. postage stamp. Here’s how they do it.
The story of Ivan Cash and his unexpected journey onto the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) is a testament to the power of creativity and public engagement. Cash's initial art project, SNAIL MAIL MY EMAIL, involved turning electronic messages into handwritten letters, a nostalgic nod to the traditional art of letter-writing. This endeavor, which engaged thousands of volunteers and resulted in tens of thousands of letters, eventually led to his invitation to join the CSAC, where he now helps decide which images grace U.S. postage stamps.
This committee, unbeknownst to many, relies heavily on public submissions, allowing everyday Americans to influence what is celebrated on stamps. From the Moon Landing to Dungeons and Dragons, these stamps reflect the diverse tapestry of American culture, history, and achievement. Cash's story not only highlights the potential for individual and collective creativity to impact national symbols but also encourages public participation in choosing what aspects of culture and history are commemorated for posterity.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge of keeping traditional letter-writing relevant in the digital age.
- The actions
- Ivan Cash initiated a project turning digital communications into handwritten letters and later joined a national committee influencing stamp designs.
- Evidence of progress
- The SNAIL MAIL MY EMAIL project engaged 2,000 volunteers and resulted in tens of thousands of letters, and Cash's role on the CSAC shows public involvement in cultural representation.
- What we can learn
- Projects that blend digital and analog experiences can revitalize interest in traditional practices and foster public engagement in cultural representation.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 7
- Meaning
- 8
- Accomplishment
- 8
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Curiosity
Cash asks his audience, 'Have you ever wondered what goes on with postage stamps?'
Perseverance
The project lasted six years, involved tens of thousands of letters, and eventually became a book.
Hope
Cash makes a plea to the public: 'If you have an idea you’d like to see on a stamp, mail us a letter, and who knows? Your idea might just end up being on a postage stamp.'
Try this today
Reflect on an aspect of culture or history you feel deserves recognition. Write a short proposal and consider submitting it to the CSAC, or share it with friends to start a conversation about cultural representation.