2026 -- H 8537

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LC006424

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

COMMEMORATING THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY (SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL) OF THE

FOUNDING OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

     Introduced By: Representatives J. Brien, Blazejewski, Kazarian, Chippendale, Kennedy,
Santucci, Shallcross Smith, Bennett, Corvese, and Fascia

     Date Introduced: May 12, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, of the

adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia

in 1776, signifying the founding of the United States of America; and

     WHEREAS, The Declaration of Independence proclaimed timeless principles of

profound significance to the national heritage of the United States, including that all are created

equal and endowed with certain inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of

happiness, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed; and

     WHEREAS, The founding of the United States established the principle of federalism,

emphasizing a decentralized system of government wherein powers are divided between national

and state governments, fostering liberty, accountability, and responsiveness to local communities;

and

     WHEREAS, This decentralized governance model has allowed for innovation, diverse

policy approaches, and stronger accountability to the citizens of each state, ensuring that

government remains close to and reflective of the people’s will; and

     WHEREAS, The founding of the United States initiated a journey toward forming a

“more perfect Union,” marked by historic achievements, struggles, and progress in realizing the

nation’s founding ideals for all its citizens; and

     WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island has played a significant role throughout the

history of the United States, contributing to the nation’s development, culture, economy, and

defense through the efforts and sacrifices of its citizens; and

     WHEREAS, The Semiquincentennial offers a unique opportunity for the people of Rhode

Island to reflect on our shared history, honor the diverse contributions of all Americans, celebrate

our heritage of liberty, and look forward to the future we strive to create for subsequent

generations; and

     WHEREAS, Commemorative activities across Rhode Island will provide educational

opportunities, foster civic engagement, encourage community participation, and strengthen

appreciation for the history, federalist principles, and foundational ideals upon which both the

nation and our state were built; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

recognizes and commemorates the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United

States of America on July 4, 2026; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That we encourage all citizens, communities, educational institutions, civic

organizations, and businesses within Rhode Island to participate in commemorative events and

activities that reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to

the ideals of liberty, equality, self-government, and federalism; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the legislature strongly encourages educational institutions across

Rhode Island to enhance civics education, ensuring that future generations understand the critical

importance of active civic participation, the principles of federalism, and the decentralized

governance that protects liberty and promotes responsive government; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Governor of the State of Rhode Island,

Daniel J. McKee.

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