Washington, D.C. – Today, America250, the official nonpartisan entity charged by Congress with organizing the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, announced more than 200 Representatives and Senators have joined the Congressional America250 Caucus – making it one of the largest bipartisan, bicameral caucuses in Congress. The Caucus also continues to grow closer to its goal of reaching 250 members ahead of the Semiquincentennial in July 2026. The full list of America250 Caucus members can be found here: https://america250.org/a250-leadership/.
Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Representatives Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) serve as Commissioners on the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and also serve as Caucus co-chairs. Congressional leadership in both chambers appointed each Commissioner.
“It is an honor to welcome more members of Congress to the bipartisan and bicameral America250 Caucus as we work to create celebratory moments and lasting programs that educate, engage, and unite our fellow Americans,” said America250 Chair, Rosie Rios. “Their insight, leadership, and diverse expertise will be instrumental in orchestrating the largest and most inspiring celebration and commemoration in our nation’s history – a 250th anniversary for all of us.”
The Congressional America250 Caucus was established to support the United States Semiquincentennial Commission’s efforts to plan and execute the most comprehensive celebration and commemoration in our country’s history. The announcement comes as America250 continues to roll out programs and partnerships in the lead-up to the Semiquincentennial. In 2024, America250 has:
- Kicked off the 2024-2025 America’s Field Trip contest, which invites students in grades 3-12 to reflect on what America means to them for the chance to earn an unforgettable field trip experience at iconic American historical and cultural sites. This summer, 75 student awardees from across the country traveled to places like the Statue of Liberty, Yellowstone National Park, the National Archives, and more as part of the first-ever America’s Field Trip contest.
- Announced the addition of President George W. Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush, and President Barack Obama and Mrs. Michelle Obama as honorary co-chairs of America250. Their platforms, voices, and stories will help encourage Americans across the country to join together in celebrating this historic milestone.
- Launched Our American Story, a national oral history project to create an inclusive tapestry that represents the history of all Americans. This initiative will meet Americans where they are — traveling to all 56 states and territories to record American stories.
- Released its “playbook” of national tentpole programs — a full suite of initiatives, events, and opportunities for national fellowship that will serve as the nationwide programming efforts to commemorate and celebrate the Semiquincentennial.
- Debuted our Ambassadors Circle, a bipartisan coalition of former electeds, writers, musicians, and business leaders who will help represent America250 and amplify its efforts. Includes Lance Bass, Gloria Estefan, Doris Kearns Goodwin, Cory Gardner, Darla Moore, Mary Smith, Ed Rendell, and Willie Brown.
- Announced National Resource Partners – a select group of expert nonpartisan, nonprofit organizations serving as an extension of America250 and helping to scale and elevate programming. Includes US Conference of Mayors, Meridian International Center, National Women’s History Museum, American Association of State and Local History, iCivics, More Perfect, National Congress of American Indians, and Points of Light.
- Announced new sponsorships by BNY and Walmart.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest begins 12:00 a.m. ET on 9/16/24 and ends 5:00 p.m. ET on 4/16/25. Open to U.S. students (3rd – 12th grade); student’s parent/legal guardian or teacher with parental permission must submit Entry on student’s behalf (unless student is age of majority). Submission includes grant of license rights to Entry’s Content. First Prize awardees must travel with parent/legal guardian on designated dates. See Official Rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, prize description/restrictions and judging procedure. Void where prohibited.
###
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.