The St. Louis Park City Council passed a proclamation at its June 1 meeting observing the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This milestone event is an opportunity to honor the aspirations expressed at the nation’s founding and reflect on how those ideals have inspired generations to work toward a more just and inclusive society. As we observe this anniversary, we recognize the importance of rededicating ourselves to the shared work of building a community and nation where every person feels belonging, safety and opportunity.
Honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary can balance celebrating its founding ideals with thoughtful acknowledgement of the struggles, challenges and diverse experiences that have shaped the nation’s story. This includes acknowledging the system of settler colonialism that contributed to the exclusion, erasure and continued marginalization of Indigenous Peoples through broken treaties, policies of land removal and laws that criminalized Indigenous culture, language, religion and ways of life. It also includes an acknowledgement that much of the built infrastructure throughout the United States and Minnesota is a result of the forced labor of enslaved Black people through a system of chattel slavery. The United States has benefited from the labor and contributions of Black people, Indigenous people, People of color and immigrants. By acknowledging these realities, we can fully reflect on the 250 years of the United States, with all its struggles, mistakes, accomplishments and moments of celebration.
Residents can honor and reflect on the 250th anniversary of the United States of America and the 140th anniversary of the origins of St. Louis Park in the following ways:
- Attend community events:
- Find city-hosted events on the city’s website and social media; in the Park Perspective and the Parks & Recreation catalog.
- Attend the annual fireworks celebration July 3, 2026 from 7 – 10:30 p.m. at Aquila Park
- Share your memories of St. Louis Park with the St. Louis Park Historical Society in advance of the city’s 150th anniversary in 2036. Email slphistory@gmail.com for more information.
- Learn more about recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America:
Whereas, the year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776; and
Whereas, this anniversary is an opportunity to reflect upon our nation’s democratic ideals of liberty, representative government and equality while also thoughtfully acknowledging the struggles, challenges and diverse experiences that have shaped the nation’s story; and
Whereas, the 250th anniversary is also an occasion to recognize the ongoing work necessary to strengthen our democracy for future generations and in pursuit of “a more perfect Union;” and
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park celebrates this national milestone alongside our own local history, inviting residents to take part in community-wide summer events — including Parktacular, concerts, cultural gatherings, and the annual fireworks celebration — and to share stories with the St. Louis Park Historical Society; and
Whereas, these celebrations highlight both our pride in community and our collective responsibility to ensure that the next chapters of our city and country reflect the democratic ideals of liberty, representative government and equality for all people,
Now therefore, let it be known that the mayor and city council of the City of St. Louis Park do hereby recognize the United States of America’s 250th anniversary and encourage all residents to engage in learning, reflection and community events this summer.
