Former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush will collaborate to commemorate America's 250th anniversary in 2026 amid growing political polarization in the U.S.
According to the Associated Press, Obama and Bush, along with their respective first ladies, Michelle Obama and Laura Bush, will serve as honorary national co-chairs for America250, a Congress-created organization tasked with managing the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
This collaboration is hoped to be a symbol of bipartisan unity, highlighting the possibility of cooperation in an increasingly divided political landscape.
America250, established by Congress in 2016, is responsible for organizing the semiquincentennial celebration. The commission's leaders believe the involvement of the two former presidents will set an example of bipartisanship and serve as a reminder of shared national values. Rosie Rios, the head of America250 and a former U.S. treasurer, emphasized the commission's inclusive nature and broad representation.
Rios highlighted that the commission aims to engage Americans from all parts of the country, including all 50 states and six U.S. territories. America250's activities will span several years, featuring a variety of events and initiatives designed to celebrate and reflect American history and values. The official launch of the celebrations took place on July 4, 2023, during a Milwaukee Brewers vs. Chicago Cubs MLB game at American Family Field.
The multiyear celebration will include a range of activities across the nation. One significant initiative is America Gives, a service project aimed at fostering community involvement and charitable activities. Additionally, efforts to compile oral histories from Americans will help preserve personal stories and experiences that contribute to the nation's rich tapestry.
A nationwide scholastic contest will also be held, encouraging students to reflect on what America means to them. This contest is intended to engage the younger generation in a dialogue about the nation's history and future. The commission hopes these efforts will create a sense of unity and shared purpose among Americans despite the current political divisions.
The collaboration between Obama and Bush comes at a time of heightened political tensions and concerns about potential violence, especially as the country approaches a contentious presidential election. The involvement of these former presidents is seen as a strategic move to promote unity and demonstrate that cooperation across party lines is possible. Both presidents have expressed their commitment to the initiative and its goals.
The Bushes released a statement emphasizing the importance of this milestone as an opportunity to reflect on the nation's history and recommit to its founding values. The Obamas also expressed their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the significance of America's historical journey and its impact on the future.
Rosie Rios underscored the grassroots nature of the celebration, stating:
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 involvement of Obama and Bush in America250 is expected to bring significant attention to the celebration and its goals. Their participation is not just symbolic; it represents a genuine effort to bridge the political divide and foster a sense of national unity. The commission's leaders are hopeful that this collaboration will inspire others to come together and work towards common goals.
As the celebration progresses, America250 will continue to roll out various initiatives designed to engage and involve Americans from all walks of life. The events and activities planned for the semiquincentennial are intended to be inclusive and reflective of the diverse experiences and perspectives that make up the nation.
The collaboration between former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush for America250 marks a significant effort to promote unity and bipartisan cooperation as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. The planned celebrations, including America Gives and the nationwide scholastic contest, aim to engage Americans from all regions and backgrounds. By reflecting on the nation's history and recommitting to its founding values, the initiative seeks to foster a sense of shared purpose and unity during a time of political polarization.
