Anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the past and look toward the future
In two short years, our nation will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence – a remarkable milestone built on the ideals of freedom, justice, democracy, and equality.
While two years may feel like an eternity, the planning for the 250th commemoration is already well underway.
This anniversary, 250 years in the making, is about so much more than just a date in the history books – it’s a historic opportunity for all Americans to pause, reflect on our past, and envision our shared future.
It’s a chance to explore.
To rediscover what being an American means to each of us.
To encourage our children to experience history outside of the classroom.
And to learn something new, whether it’s in our own backyards or halfway across the country.
Already, education and exploration are at the heart of the national effort to celebrate the 250th through initiatives like America’s Field Trip, a nationwide scholastic contest inviting students to reflect on what America means to them, with awardees receiving behind-the-scenes experiences at iconic American historical and cultural sites. Beginning this July, the first cohort of students will begin embarking on trips across the country, experiencing unforgettable sites like the Statue of Liberty, Yellowstone National Park, and Fort Point for the very first time. The contest will start again in the Fall, and continue to expand for more students and with new experiences in the leadup to 2026.
But America’s Field Trip is just the start. Museums and historic institutions across the country have already begun planning their programming and sharing resources. Businesses large and small are eagerly getting involved, and plans from the federal to the state and local level are well underway to ensure that this is the largest and most inclusive commemoration in American history. This effort goes well beyond well-known landmarks and the 13 original colonies, including countless lesser-known historical sites in every corner of the country. From Fairbanks to Philadelphia, every city, every state, every territory, and every American has a story to share – and there’s never been a better opportunity to share it.
And while there’s no question that we live in divisive times, it’s precisely because of these challenges that an effort like this is so needed and welcome. This is an anniversary for all Americans – a chance for us to take a step back and to learn from each other and our history – the tragedy, the triumph, and the untold stories in between.
Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege to crisscross the country – from Milwaukee to Los Angeles, New York City to Montevallo and so many cities in between – speaking with business and civic leaders, nonprofits, historians, and community organizations about the upcoming 250th. And the message I’ve heard is loud and clear – we’re ready to meet this moment, together.
I will never forget the awe and wonder of experiencing the Bicentennial as a child in 1976. I still have my Bicentennial quarter and will always remember the sights and sounds of the Freedom Train, and the feeling that I could accomplish anything. As we inch closer to July 4th, 2026, my goal is to capture that same feeling for millions of Americans, and for us all to feel that this is the land of opportunity all over again.
Rosie Rios is Chair of America250, the official nonpartisan entity charged by Congress with planning the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. She served as the 43rd Treasurer of the United States.
About America250
America250 is a nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is spearheaded by the congressionally appointed U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit supporting organization, America250.org, Inc, together known as America250. This multi-year effort kicked off with America’s Invitation on July 4, 2023: a national public engagement campaign inviting all Americans to share their stories and their hopes and dreams for the future of this country. Until July 4, 2026, America250 is working to provide opportunities for all Americans to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look to the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
To learn more, visit America250.org, and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
