While millions of Americans are currently focused on the upcoming Labor Day holiday, another group of individuals is turning their attention towards a significant historical celebration that is a little under three years away—the 250th anniversary of America’s founding on July 4, 2026. The America250 commission, in partnership with various groups and stakeholders nationwide, is diligently planning numerous events for this momentous semiquincentennial celebration. The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to organize and coordinate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, and Rosie Rios, a former U.S. Treasurer, was appointed as its chair in early 2018.
Rios, in an interview with Fox News Digital, expressed her passion for patriotism and her desire to instill the same love for the country in her children for the year 2026. She fondly recalled her own experience of celebrating America’s bicentennial as a child in 1976 and emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation, particularly those in their 20s, to have a deep connection and appreciation for the country. Rios believes that involving citizens in the commemoration and allowing them to share their unique stories is crucial for creating a sense of identity and unity. Through America250’s public engagement initiative, individuals across the nation are encouraged to contribute by submitting videos, poems, family recipes, or any other form of expression that resonates with them. The website America250.org serves as a platform for showcasing these individual stories, as well as a means of creating a multifaceted portrait of what it truly means to be American.
Rios emphasized that the celebration is ultimately about the people and their stories, with a focus on local communities. The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, composed of private citizens, U.S. representatives and senators, and ex-officio members from all branches of the federal government, is joined by various entities such as nonprofits, historical societies, academic institutions, mayors, governors, city councils, and community partners in the planning efforts. Rios highlighted the significance of leveraging digital platforms to document and share these stories, taking advantage of technology like never before.
As the planning for America’s 250th birthday continues, Rios expressed hope that the efforts of the stakeholders, including the 56 commissions representing the 50 states, territories, and the district, would contribute to a unified and comprehensive celebration. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity and the participation of diverse organizations and individuals in order to capture the essence of America. Rios cited examples of personal contributions, such as a family creating a song about the semiquincentennial, and encouraged people to set their own personal goals to accomplish by 2026. This aspirational component underscores the idea of personal and professional growth leading up to the celebration.
In reflection of the current global context, Rios acknowledged the many changes that have occurred over the past decade and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she believes that focusing on shared values and commonalities rather than differences will help bring people together and make the celebration all the more meaningful. Rios emphasized the importance of all Americans feeling a sense of ownership and connection to the celebration.
America250 has launched “America’s Invitation,” a platform for collecting ideas and inspirations for the celebrations, with ongoing events, exhibits, education, and more leading up to July 2026. Two new partners, Nextdoor and YWCA USA, have officially joined America250, further expanding the reach and impact of the celebration. Individuals interested in learning more about America250 can visit their website for further information.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
