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H8537
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
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WHEREAS, July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, of the
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adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia
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in 1776, signifying the founding of the United States of America; and
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WHEREAS, The Declaration of Independence proclaimed timeless principles of
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profound significance to the national heritage of the United States, including that all are created
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equal and endowed with certain inalienable rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of
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happiness, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed; and
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WHEREAS, The founding of the United States established the principle of federalism,
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emphasizing a decentralized system of government wherein powers are divided between national
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and state governments, fostering liberty, accountability, and responsiveness to local communities;
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and
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WHEREAS, This decentralized governance model has allowed for innovation, diverse
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policy approaches, and stronger accountability to the citizens of each state, ensuring that
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government remains close to and reflective of the people’s will; and
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WHEREAS, The founding of the United States initiated a journey toward forming a
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“more perfect Union,” marked by historic achievements, struggles, and progress in realizing the
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nation’s founding ideals for all its citizens; and
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WHEREAS, The State of Rhode Island has played a significant role throughout the
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history of the United States, contributing to the nation’s development, culture, economy, and
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defense through the efforts and sacrifices of its citizens; and
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WHEREAS, The Semiquincentennial offers a unique opportunity for the people of Rhode
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Island to reflect on our shared history, honor the diverse contributions of all Americans, celebrate
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our heritage of liberty, and look forward to the future we strive to create for subsequent
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generations; and
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WHEREAS, Commemorative activities across Rhode Island will provide educational
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opportunities, foster civic engagement, encourage community participation, and strengthen
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appreciation for the history, federalist principles, and foundational ideals upon which both the
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nation and our state were built; now, therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
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recognizes and commemorates the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United
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States of America on July 4, 2026; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That we encourage all citizens, communities, educational institutions, civic
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organizations, and businesses within Rhode Island to participate in commemorative events and
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activities that reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to
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the ideals of liberty, equality, self-government, and federalism; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the legislature strongly encourages educational institutions across
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Rhode Island to enhance civics education, ensuring that future generations understand the critical
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importance of active civic participation, the principles of federalism, and the decentralized
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governance that protects liberty and promotes responsive government; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
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transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the Governor of the State of Rhode Island,
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Daniel J. McKee.
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