With America’s 250th birthday coming up in 2026, 450 local and state commemoration planners from 37 states and 33 cities and counties from all over Virginia gathered in Williamsburg for ‘A Common Cause to All.’ The three-day program allowed planners to network, share ideas, and discuss how best to commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial.
A theme running throughout the conference was how the 250th commemoration can bring together and unite Americans, much as the Bicentennial did in 1976. The commemoration can also increase interest in American history for all ages, but particularly for children.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin highlighted the conference’s opening night. He spoke about how important knowing our history is, and how the 250th commemorations can help inspire Americans and Virginians alike to learn more about their home state and country. Youngkin said the commemoration will be “an extraordinary celebration,” and expressed his personal feelings about commemorating “the most important day in the history of this great country and possibly the world. My heart swells with pride.”
He also talked of the investment Virginia is making in the 250th commemorations. Leading up to July 4, 2026, Youngkin said he expects to see an economic and tourism boost from those coming to Virginia for Semiquincentennial events.
Longtime television journalist Harry Smith offered stories from his travels across America, where he saw firsthand how much average Americans have in common, even in divisive times such as these.
Tuesday morning began with a powerful speech from Virginia Supreme Court Justice John Charles Thomas, the first African American and youngest appointed to the post. Thomas said he views America not as a melting pot, but as a tapestry made of many parts showing America’s history, good and bad.
Attendees also heard from Carly Fiorina, the National Honorary Chairman of VA250, Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States, and Chairman of the America 250, as well as nationally known historians. Attendees also got a sneak peek of the upcoming documentary from Ken Burns, ‘The American Revolution’, which will air in 2025.
The conference closed with a reenactment of the Virginia House of Burgesses call for a day of ‘Fasting, Humiliation, and Prayer,’ in support of the people of Boston, following England’s closing of their port in response to the Boston Tea Party.
Jarred Marlowe is the local chairman for the Martinsville and Henry County Virginia 250 Commission. For information about upcoming local events, visit www.facebook.com/groups/361258202916918/.
