Alaska joins effort to commemorate 250th anniversary of the U.S.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy recently appointed the Alaska Historical Commission to serve as Alaska’s coordinating entity in 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 America250-Alaska Task Force will work to honor the unique history, traditions, and contributions of the state while embracing the shared values and aspirations of the American people.

“As we near the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, I am honored to announce the establishment of America250-Alaska Task Force to lead our efforts in celebrating this historic milestone,” said Governor 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."

“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.”

“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.”

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.

With Alaska now on board as the 49th state, 54 states and territories have announced Semiquincentennial entities as America250 works to establish a Commission in all 50 states, 5 territories, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, 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.

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 www.America250.org and follow on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.