Commemorating the 250th Anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the Founding of the United States of America

WHEREAS, July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia in 1776, signifying the founding of the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, The Declaration of Independence proclaimed timeless principles of profound significance to the national heritage of the United States, including that all are created equal and endowed with certain inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed; and

WHEREAS, The founding of the United States established the principle of federalism, emphasizing a decentralized system of government wherein powers are divided between national and state governments, fostering liberty, accountability, and responsiveness to local communities; and

WHEREAS, This decentralized governance model has allowed for innovation, diverse policy approaches, and stronger accountability to the citizens of each state, ensuring that government remains close to and reflective of the people’s will; and

WHEREAS, The founding of the United States initiated a journey toward forming a “more perfect Union,” marked by historic achievements, struggles, and progress in realizing the nation’s founding ideals for all its citizens; and

WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island has played a significant role throughout the history of the United States, contributing to the nation’s development, culture, economy, and defense through the efforts and sacrifices of its citizens; and

WHEREAS, The Semiquincentennial offers a unique opportunity for the people of Rhode Island to reflect on our shared history, honor the diverse contributions of all Americans, celebrate our heritage of liberty, and look forward to the future we strive to create for subsequent generations; and

WHEREAS, Commemorative activities across Rhode Island will provide educational opportunities, foster civic engagement, encourage community participation, and strengthen appreciation for the history, federalist principles, and foundational ideals upon which both the nation and our state were built; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby recognizes and commemorates the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America on July 4, 2026; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage all citizens, communities, educational institutions, civic organizations, and businesses within Rhode Island to participate in commemorative events and activities that reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of liberty, equality, self-government, and federalism; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the legislature strongly encourages educational institutions across Rhode Island to enhance civics education, ensuring that future generations understand the critical importance of active civic participation, the principles of federalism, and the decentralized governance that protects liberty and promotes responsive government; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Governor of the State of Rhode Island, Daniel J. McKee.