Which organization did Congress establish in 2016 to coordinate the America250 commemoration?

Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to coordinate the America250 commemoration.

The commission was created through federal legislation intended to organize and promote the 250th anniversary of American independence. Its responsibilities included encouraging nationwide participation and supporting commemorative activities connected with the 2026 milestone.

The commission’s work involved more than ceremonial events. Federal legislation directed attention toward historically significant cities, commemorative coins, postage stamps, and appropriately named naval vessels. America250 became the public-facing identity associated with the commission’s work.

The commission should not be confused with the separate White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, also known as Freedom 250, which was created later. The 2016 commission was the original congressional body for long-term semiquincentennial planning.