In a significant move to cultivate national unity during a time of intense political polarization, former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush have taken on the roles of honorary national co-chairs at America250.
According to ABC News, they join forces along with former First Ladies Michelle Obama and Laura Bush in this bipartisan effort to honor the 250th anniversary of America's Independence.
The America250 organization, established by Congress in 2016, is setting the stage for a grand commemoration of the Declaration of Independence's signing in 2026. Besides celebrating, this initiative aims to reinforce American democracy across all states and territories.
The choice of such bipartisan leadership reflects the commission's dedication to showcasing political cooperation at a national level. As stressed by Rosie Rios, who previously served as U.S. Treasurer and now leads America250, the commission welcomes diverse political viewpoints to best represent the full spectrum of the American populace.
Rosie Rios highlighted the inclusive nature of the initiative, emphasizing its broad outreach. "This is a grassroots effort that all Americans feel like they can be a part of, from Guam to Alaska, Fairbanks to Philadelphia, and everything in between. This is about celebrating and commemorating that we’re the oldest democracy in the world."
The celebration officially kicked off with an event on July 4, 2023, that featured an MLB game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Chicago Cubs, symbolically connecting America's pastime with its foundational celebration.
Among the innovative initiatives spearheaded by America250 is America Gives, a service-focused project alongside an extensive program to compile oral histories from across America. There is also a national scholastic contest designed to engage and educate young minds about America's rich historical narrative.
Such collaborative and educational projects underscore the multiplicity of ways in which the America250 Commission plans to engage citizens across the nation. The Bushes articulated their views on this milestone, noting, “This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our history and recommit to our country’s founding values.”
Year-long celebrations are slated to permeate across the nation by the year 2026, aiming to bring together all 50 states and six U.S. territories in a unified commemoration.
The Obamas conveyed their anticipation for the events, pointing out the continuous evolution of America since its birth while keeping a connection to its beginnings. Their message speaks to the transformative journey of the nation through 250 years.
Highlighting the enduring impact of history on contemporary society and aspirations, Barack and Michelle Obama emphasized continuity and change.
In a push to bring the nation together, the initiative by America250 hopes to not just look back fondly on 250 years of progress but also to inspire a recommitment to the principles that have guided the United States since its founding.
America250, under the honorary leadership of former Presidents and their first ladies, will delve into America’s past while paving a path toward a unified and promising future. Through initiatives like oral history collections, service projects, and educational contests, the project seeks to strengthen communal bonds and reaffirm foundational democratic values on the monumental occasion of America's 250th anniversary of Independence.
