WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 20, 2026) — America250, the bipartisan organization charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced a partnership with the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to bring storytelling programs to communities nationwide that reflect on the nation’s history, values, and future aspirations.
“For 75 years, Knight Foundation has been at the forefront of strengthening communities through civic engagement, supporting free expression and championing the arts,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “We are proud to partner with Knight as we honor the power of community and inspire the next generation to shape America’s future.”
Knight Foundation and America250 will engage Knight communities, including supporting “Our American Story” tour in multiple communities such as Columbus, GA, San José, CA, Duluth, MN, Wichita, KS, and Miami, FL. In each city, the tour will bring together local partners, residents, and cultural institutions to collect and archive each community’s unique story.
“At Knight, we believe people are the drivers of thriving communities. Our partnership with America250 amplifies the voices and stories of people whose creativity, dedication, and vision are helping their communities flourish every day,” said Francesca de Quesada Covey, vice president of community impact at Knight Foundation.
Knight Foundation invests in local journalism and free expression, arts and culture, and community development in 26 cities where the Knight brothers once published newspapers. The foundation works with leaders in community to create economic opportunity, foster civic engagement, deepen cultural richness and improve public spaces.
To learn more about Knight, visit knightfoundation.org. To learn more about America250 and its national commemorative efforts, visit America250.org.
About America250
America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.
About Knight Foundation
We are social investors who support a more effective democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts and culture in community, research in areas like artificial intelligence, and the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers. Learn more at kf.org.