​America250MI Celebrates
The Declaration of Independence
The Rejection of a King
and Authoritarian Rule
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
As America marks its 249th birthday, we pause to reflect on the profound principles rooted in the Declaration of Independence—principles that continue to define our nation and inspire our collective journey. In 1776, the rejection of a king and authoritarian rule ignited a movement centered on the revolutionary ideas that all men are created equal, and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. These core tenets challenge us to honor the sacrifices of those who came before: Civil Rights leaders who fought tirelessly for All Men are Created Equal, Native peoples like the Odawa, Ojibwa, and Potawatomi who clung to their Life and Liberty, and countless immigrants who sought the pursuit of Happiness for themselves and future generations. They fought and sacrificed their lives for these principles, rooted in the unshakeable truths that all people are created equal and endowed with rights that no tyranny can take away—truths etched into the very fabric of our nation’s founding, and a legacy we carry forward with pride and responsibility.
Today, we stand on their shoulders—embracing the unbreakable promises of the Declaration—and with unwavering hearts, we commit to fiercely defending those sacred ideals, ensuring that the true spirit of liberty, equality, and pursuit of happiness forever echo through the generations to come!
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Words from the Declaration of Independence...
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"That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
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He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.​​​
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For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
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For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
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For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
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For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
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For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
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For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offence:"​​​​​​​​
5 Guiding Themes
The America250MI program is inspired by the 5 Guiding Themes that serve as a framework for exploring Michigan's rich history and the narratives that shape our identity. These themes—Unfinished Revolutions, Power of Place, We the People, American Experiment, and Doing History—encourage us to delve into unheard stories, highlighting the experiences of marginalized communities and individuals throughout our state’s journey. By engaging with these themes, we not only celebrate our shared heritage but also foster a deeper understanding of the complexities in our past, paving the way for a better future. Together, we can ensure that all voices are recognized and valued in the Semiquincentennial Commemoration of the Declaration of Independence and America’s history.
Our Mission
America250MI will engage all Michiganders in exploring the legacy of the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution (late 1700s), fostering collaboration to explore Michigan's history from that pivotal moment to today, and build a more inclusive future.
Our Vision
America250MI will unite Michigan communities to commemorate our shared heritage and significant contributions to the American story, uncovering unheard voices, fostering historical awareness, and inspiring lasting civic pride.
We Need You!
As we plan America250MI events and programming, we want to hear from you!
Complete the survey below to share with us the best ways we can support you or your organization over the next few years. We hope to be a source of information, support, and connection for Michiganders everywhere as we begin to commemorate this momentous occasion.
