A Declaration of Creativity: Why Destination Imagination Teams Sign Their Own Declaration of Independence

In the world of Destination Imagination (DI), creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving are the cornerstones of the Challenge Experience. But there’s one foundational principle that sets DI apart from many other programs: the rule of Interference. This unique guideline protects the integrity of student-generated work and ensures that every solution truly belongs to the team.

To reinforce this rule, every DI team member signs a "Declaration of Independence" before tournament day—affirming that their Challenge solution is 100% their own creation, free from outside assistance. But why is this declaration so important? And what does it really mean for students, parents, and volunteers?

Let’s take a closer look.

What Is the Rule of Interference?

In DI, Interference refers to help from anyone outside the team—whether it’s a parent gluing props, a teacher suggesting a storyline, or a sibling helping troubleshoot a device. While support and encouragement are welcome, offering ideas or hands-on help is not allowed.

This rule isn’t about isolating students—it’s about empowering them. It ensures that every aspect of the Challenge solution comes from the team members themselves: their ideas, their decisions, their work.

What Is the Declaration of Independence?

Before competing, each team member signs a Declaration of Independence, a symbolic and practical affirmation that:

• They created their solution as a team,

• They did not receive prohibited assistance,

• And they are proud to present a solution that reflects their own effort, imagination, and teamwork.

Just like the historical document it's named after, this declaration represents ownership, autonomy, and responsibility.

Why It Matters

💡 Promotes Authentic Learning

When students solve problems on their own—without adult shortcuts—they experience genuine growth. They learn from failure, think critically, and develop confidence in their abilities.

🤝 Encourages True Collaboration

Each team member brings something unique to the table. The Interference rule reinforces the importance of mutual respect, listening, and shared responsibility. No one can "fix it for them"—they have to work together.

🧱 Builds Integrity and Accountability

Signing the declaration teaches students to stand behind their work with honesty and pride. It’s a lesson in ethics, responsibility, and self-reliance—skills that extend far beyond DI.

A Message for Parents and Supporters

As adults, it can be tempting to jump in and “help”—especially when a student is struggling. But in DI, the struggle is part of the learning. Your role is to support, cheer, and encourage from the sidelines—letting the team take full ownership of their journey.

Need to help? Great! Offer a ride to the store, organize snacks, or listen when they need to talk through an idea. But resist the urge to step in and solve the problem—it’s not your solution to build.

The Takeaway: Pride in Ownership

When a DI team signs their Declaration of Independence, they’re not just checking a box. They’re making a statement:

“We imagined this. We built this. We solved this. Together.”

In a world where it’s easy to Google answers or rely on adults to pave the way, Destination Imagination gives students something rare and powerful—the chance to take full creative ownership, succeed on their own terms, and grow into confident, capable problem-solvers.

That’s the real magic of the DI Declaration. It’s not just about independence—it’s about empowerment.

Want to learn more about the Interference rule and how you can support your DI team without overstepping? Visit DestinationImagination.org or connect with your local DI Affiliate for resources and training.

Want to learn more about DI in Wisconsin? Contact Wisconsin Destination Imagination.