July 4, 2026, will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America. This occasion represents a unique opportunity to engage with our nation’s history, including the millennia of Indigenous history prior to the founding of the United States, and to reflect upon how this knowledge of our country’s past can build a stronger future.
The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to orchestrate nationwide activities in recognition of the 250th anniversary. Many state governments across the country have created their own commissions to implement commemorations on a local level, adapting initiatives to the distinct historic contexts of their states.
Accordingly, the 2023 Montana Legislature passed House Bill 0377, establishing the Montana 250th Commission to coordinate statewide efforts to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial. The objectives of this commission are to promote civic engagement and increase public awareness of United States and Montana government and history, including the history of Tribal nations. The eleven-member commission will work with partners to:
Commission Members:
The following eleven commission members were appointed per the stipulations of the enacting legislation:
Emily Arendt, Billings
Christopher Averill, East Helena
Marietta Croft, Colstrip
Jane Lee Hamman, Clancy
Mike Jetty, Helena
Molly Kruckenberg, Helena
Deena Mansour, Missoula
Shannon O’Brien, Missoula
Linda Reksten, Polson
Hal Stearns, Missoula
Molly Stockdale, Lolo
Meetings:
The Montana 250th Commission will meet according to the schedule it determines most appropriate to carry out its responsibilities. Meetings of the commission are subject to Montana’s open meeting and public participation laws. The schedule and location of upcoming meetings will be posted on this webpage.
Schedule: