I, Mike Dunleavy, Governor of the State of Alaska, under the authority of Article III, Secs. 1, 23, and 24 of the Constitution of the State of Alaska, hereby establish the America250-Alaska Task Force to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial.
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The United States of America declared its independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. In 2016, Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission, which encourages state and local governments to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Nation’s independence. The purpose of this Administrative Order is to designate the Alaska Historical Commission as the agency responsible for coordinating the observance, events and activities in the State of Alaska commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
FINDINGS
- The 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is a historic occasion that requires appropriate recognition and participation by the State of Alaska.
- The Alaska Historical Commission, a nine-member citizen forum chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, is the most suitable existing entity to plan and coordinate Alaska’s participation in this anniversary due to its statutory mandate and expertise in historical matters.
ORDER
To engage Alaskans and coordinate commemoration activities, I, Mike Dunleavy, Governor of the State of Alaska, hereby authorize the Alaska Historical Commission to serve as Alaska’s official America250 State entity. The Commission will be responsible for encouraging, organizing, and fostering America250-Alaska activities statewide and working with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission at the national level.
The Alaska Historical Commission shall:
- Develop a strategic plan for the State’s participation in the semiquincentennial celebration, including events, educational initiatives, and outreach activities.
- Coordinate with relevant federal, State, and local agencies, as well as public and private organizations, to ensure the State’s approach to the semiquincentennial is both comprehensive and inclusive.
- Submit a preliminary report to the Governor within 90 days of this order that details proposed activities, budget requirements, and potential partnerships.
All State agencies and departments shall, within available appropriations, and as requested by the Alaska Historical Commission, provide assistance, information, and resources necessary to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in this order.
DURATION
This Order takes effect immediately and remains in effect until December 31, 2027.
DATED this 6th day of November 2024.
