Dozens of projects across the state are receiving grant money as Massachusetts leaders begin a campaign celebrating the state’s role in the nation’s 250th birthday from now through 2026.
“Just as we led America’s revolution, this state, Massachusetts, will lead this country in celebrating our great nation. We’ll do that over the next two years by lifting up and promoting the revolutionary greatness in every community of our state,” Gov. Maura Healey said.
The governor spoke outside the Massachusetts State House on Tuesday at a kickoff event for Massachusetts 250. She pointed out that governor Samuel Adams laid the cornerstone of the capitol building.
A reenactor playing the role of Paul Revere kicked off the event on horseback, delivering a scroll to the governor, who was later seen riding his horse on Beacon Street.
“This is going to be an ongoing celebration of who we are, of where we’ve been and what is to come. We’re going to leverage this moment to draw in visitors from all around, not just the state, the country, but literally the world who are going to come here to Massachusetts to see and to celebrate where it all began,” Healey said.
“The goal of Massachusetts 250 is, as the governor said, to help all of our communities tell their stories. So it’s my honor, on behalf of the Healy Driscoll administration and the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, to announce that we are supporting 37 projects statewide,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
Driscoll said the 37 projects span the state and represent the first round of funding from the program. She said the projects include new exhibits, trails, websites, videos, productions and events.
Last week, the organization announced that a total of $1.5 million was being awarded through this round of the grant program.
“We’re going to have another round of funding to support so many others who also want to contribute to our celebration in 2026,” Driscoll said.
“Our city is still the center of the action. We’re making history as a matter of course,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. “With millions of eyes on us, as we host the celebrations and welcome the tall ships and the World Cup back to Boston, we have an opportunity to share our full story with the world.”
Healey, a Democrat, also drew a parallel between the political controversies of this time and the birth of the revolution.
“Just like 1775-1776, we’re in a pivotal moment for this nation, and getting engaged means fortifying our commitment to democracy and to freedom. Today is National Voter Registration Day, so let’s spread the word and encourage everyone to get out, get registered and participate in our great democracy,” Healey said.
View article: https://www.wcvb.com/article/massachusetts-250-celebration-kickoff-sept-17-2024/62244175
