SR0692 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, July 4, 2026 will mark the 250th anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in 1776; and

WHEREAS, The Semiquincentennial provides an opportunity to reflect on the complex history of the United States, including its founding principles, its aspirations, its contradictions, and the ongoing effort to realize the promise of liberty and equality for all; and

WHEREAS, The Declaration of Independence articulated foundational ideals, including equality, unalienable rights, and government grounded in the consent of the governed; these principles have inspired civic movements, democratic participation, and continued efforts toward justice throughout the nation's history; and

WHEREAS, The history of the United States includes both notable achievements and profound injustices, and a full commemoration of the Semiquincentennial calls for an inclusive and robust examination of that history; and

WHEREAS, What is now the State of Illinois has played a significant role in the nation's development since joining the Union in 1818, shaped by the contributions, cultures, labor, service, and civic engagement of diverse communities across the State; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois America 250 Commission seeks to promote inclusive public engagement, support educational initiatives, encourage civic participation, and foster dialogue about the nation's past, present, and future; and

WHEREAS, The Semiquincentennial offers a meaningful opportunity for communities across Illinois to explore local histories, elevate underrepresented voices, and consider how democratic principles can be strengthened for future generations; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence as an opportunity for reflection, inspiration, education, dialogue, and civic engagement; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage residents, cities, towns, suburbs and municipalities, educational institutions, cultural organizations, civic groups, tourism bureaus, and businesses throughout Illinois to participate in and support activities that examine our shared history accessibly and inclusively, promote understanding of democratic principles, inspire the exchange of ideas about this historic milestone, and strengthen civic life; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage and support all efforts to bolster the history, heritage, and cultural organizations that preserve and protect our State's archives, museums, libraries, historic sites, and community collections, ensuring broad public access to Illinois' diverse histories and strengthening opportunities for education, research, and civic engagement for present and future generations; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we support efforts to expand access to high-quality civics education that prepares individuals for thoughtful, constructive participation in our democracy with an understanding of the nation's founding ideals and the diverse people and communities in Illinois who have engaged, and continue to engage, in the work required to realize them fully for our residents and all residents of the states and territories of the United States of America.