Barack and Michelle Obama, George W. and Laura Bush to serve as honorary co-chairs of America250 efforts

AUGUST 1, 2024:

America250 is excited to announce that President George W. Bush, Mrs. Laura Bush, President Barack Obama, and Mrs. Michelle Obama will serve as Honorary National Co-Chairs of the national effort to celebrate and commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the United States.

As Honorary Co-Chairs, President and Mrs. Bush and President and Mrs. Obama will lend their voices to the nationwide effort to mark this historic milestone.

The momentum behind America250 has never been greater. We look forward to working with the presidents and first ladies to ensure that the 250th is a celebration for all Americans, from sea to shining sea.

President Bush and President Obama are leaders with unique American experiences. Collectively, their platforms, voices, and stories will inspire Americans across the country to join together in celebrating America’s 250th.

FEBRUARY 20, 2024:

On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for future generations.

“This state effort is being led by the America250th South Dakota Commission,” said State Historian Dr. Ben Jones. “One of the goals of the South Dakota campaign is to collaborate with communities, states, tribes, federal agencies, nonprofits, cultural and educational institutions, governments, and private companies to celebrate and commemorate 250 years of American independence.”

“Through the work of hundreds of volunteers, we will explore the compelling, complex, and rich histories that make us who we are. The success of this initiative will not be possible without key partners,” said Jones.

The commission is ready to sign up partners who are interested in being a part of the 250^th anniversary celebrations by lending expertise and resources, crafting memorable events statewide, and helping engage all South Dakotans in this historic commemoration.