Which congressional commission was established in 2016 to plan the United States’ America250 observance?

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission was established in 2016 to plan the America250 observance.

Congress created the commission through the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. Its role was to develop and coordinate commemorations for the 250th anniversary of American independence, while presenting the nation’s history as a story extending beyond the Revolutionary War alone.

The commission is a congressional, nonpartisan organization. Its membership has included members of Congress, private citizens, and federal officials. The body began organizing formally in 2018, when its members were sworn in at Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

The commission should not be confused with the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, created in 2025. The two organizations have different origins and structures, although both have been involved in planning anniversary-related activities.