Juneau, AK – Today, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy officially appointed the Alaska Historical Commission to serve as Alaska’s coordinating entity entrusted with planning the state’s commemorative activities for the Semiquincentennial in 2026. In collaboration with America250, the official nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in celebrating and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Semiquincentennial, the Alaska Historical Commission will work to honor the unique history, traditions, and contributions of the state while embracing the shared values and aspirations of the American people.
“We’re thrilled that the largest state in the nation, with its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse indigenous cultures is now joining our historic effort to plan the largest and inspiring celebration and commemoration in American history,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, and this spirit of exploration will help ensure a memorable Semiquincentennial that is truly of, by and for the people. Thanks to Governor Dunleavy’s leadership in establishing this commission, Alaska will play a key role in marking this historic milestone and ensuring it is representative of Alaskans and all Americans.”
“I’m excited to see my home state join our initiative to plan and celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski, an America250 Commissioner. “From our breathtaking landscapes to our unique culture rich in Indigenous heritage, it’s important for Alaska to be part of this nationwide effort. While we were still 183 years from statehood when the Declaration of Independence was signed, our contributions to the union are second to none, and I’m excited to partner with the Alaska Historical Commission to share our story and highlight our people as we approach this historic milestone.”
“As we near the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, I am honored to announce the Alaska Historical Commission will lead our efforts in celebrating this historic milestone,” said Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. “Alaska’s rich history, diverse cultures, and unique contributions to the United States will play a vital role in this national celebration. I look forward to engaging Alaskans in this once-in-a-lifetime commemoration.”
With Alaska now on board, 54 states and territories have announced Semiquincentennial entities as America250 works to establish a Commission in all 50 states, 5 territories, and the District of Columbia. The established State and Territorial Commissions include Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia.
In April, Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski was appointed to the United States Semiquincentennial Commission by U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. As a Commissioner, Senator Murkowski assists the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and America250.org, together known as America250, in orchestrating the largest and inspiring commemoration and celebration in American history. The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to plan and orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Commission is comprised of 16 private citizens, four members of the U.S. Senate, four members of the U.S. House of Representatives, all of whom were appointed by House and Senate leadership of both parties. Congress also designated the inclusion of 12 Ex Officio federal partners, including several independent agencies.
About America250
America250 is a nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in celebrating and commemorating the Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is spearheaded by the congressionally-appointed U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and its sole-supporting nonprofit 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. Leading up to 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.
America's Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
This contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to travel for field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.