In 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the country.

The Connecticut Semiquincentennial Commission is responsible for planning and coordinating the State of Connecticut’s multi-year commemorations, celebrations, and reflections with the mission to enhance tourism, economic development, historic education and preservation, and outdoor recreation within the state.

In the spirit of participatory democracy, it is the vision of the America 250 | CT Commission that rather than planning one single commemorative event, organizations and individuals around the state are encouraged to make meaning of this anniversary in their own way.

Each community must ensure that Americans of all ages and backgrounds and in all places see themselves in history, appreciate its relevance, and understand how the diverse people of the past all contributed to the American story. It is the hope that Connecticut will be remembered as a model for revolutionary civic participation that inspires others with our people’s passions, histories, and capacity to create positive and sustainable change—together.

Visit CT250.org for information, including:

• Mission, vision, guiding values
• America 250 | CT themes
• Commission members
• Meeting dates, agendas, and minutes
• Links to statewide resources, including a Planning Guide

By recognizing this moment in our history, the nation has the opportunity to lay the groundwork for a reawakening of civic engagement by encouraging the participation of all residents. America 250 | CT is leading the state’s efforts to support diverse, inclusive, and impactful programs in collaboration with cultural, education, history, and arts organizations throughout the state. The America 250 | CT Commission is administered by CT Humanities.

Declaring Freedom Conference, March 15, 2024 (Day 3)
Event Program HERE – with links to bios of moderators and panelists and resources.
Contact Cyndi Tolosa at ctolosa@cthumanities.org for additional information including panel recordings.