Local Engagement
In 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the country. It is an opportunity for reflection on the ideals of the founders of the nation, but also a time to consider the path forward in expanding our realization of those ideals today.
In the spirit of participatory democracy, it is the vision of the America 250 | CT Commission that rather than planning one single commemorative event, we are encouraging organizations and individuals around the state to make meaning of this anniversary in their own way.
Start thinking about what your organization and what your community can do using the following America 250 | CT resources:
We ask all local officials to send us a local contact that can be shared with people who would like to be more involved in the Commission and its work. As we move forward, we will also share details on funding and promoting your events.
Timeline:
- 2025: Meet & plan! Finalize plans for activities—school programs, exhibitions, lecture series, community conversations—that will be happening. Consider funding opportunities – projects aligned to the America 250 | CT themes are a funding priority for CT Humanities grants.
- 2026: Commemorative activities take place throughout the state. Quick grants are available through CT Humanities.
- 2027 and onwards: Continue the conversations that began through this process!
Other Resources: