Item Description:
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Creation of a Hennepin County Semiquincentennial (America 250) Planning Committee - offered by Commissioner Lunde
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, That the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners authorizes the establishment of a Hennepin County Semiquincentennial Planning Committee to coordinate, promote, and support local efforts in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 2026 and directs the County Administrator to appoint members of the Committee and coordinate and promote Hennepin County's role in order to maximize participation by Hennepin County residents in recognition events.
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Background:
In 2026, the United States will commemorate its 250th anniversary, a milestone designated by Congress through the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-196). National, state, and local governments across the country are preparing celebrations, educational programs, public art initiatives, and legacy projects to mark this occasion. In September 2023, through Executive Order 23-11, the State of Minnesota created a 15-person committee to plan, guide, promote, and coordinate activities in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Hennepin County has a unique opportunity to showcase its vibrant history, diverse communities, and democratic traditions through meaningful public engagement in this once-in-a-generation commemoration.
Establishing a formal planning committee will ensure coordination with the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, cross-sector collaboration, equity in representation, and alignment with Minnesota's America 250 Commission and national efforts. It is proposed that the Hennepin County Semiquincentennial Planning Committee include participation from representatives from County departments, local governments, Native nations, community organizations, cultural institutions, and historically underrepresented communiti...
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