Programs will provide a boost for Bay State businesses, leaders say.
Massachusetts is launching a statewide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
During a kick-off event on the front steps of the State House on Tuesday beside other state leaders and historical reenactors, Gov. Maura Healey said Massachusetts 250 will draw visitors from across the nation and world, resulting in a “really significant” boost for businesses.
“Just as we led America’s revolution, this state, Massachusetts, will lead this country in celebrating our great nation,” said Healey. “We’ll do that over the next two years, by lifting up and promoting the revolutionary greatness in every community of our state.”
The Massachusetts 250 Grant Program awarded $1.5 million for 37 projects statewide, and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said there will be another round of funding in the future.
“These are projects that highlight the themes of revolution and independence and celebrate significant historical firsts in Massachusetts using creative approaches to showcase our state’s rich 250-year history,” Driscoll said. “They cover the length and breadth of Massachusetts, from Pittsfield to Fall River and Newburyport to Nantucket. They include new exhibits, trails, websites, videos, productions, events, and more.”
Healey emphasized the importance of representing all voices in Massachusetts 250 programming, including those of Indigenous, Black, Latino, and Asian communities.
“We’ve led the revolution to make America an inclusive and just democracy,” Healey said. “In Massachusetts 250, we’re going to build on that.”
Every city and town in Massachusetts has revolutionary history, legends, and cultural traditions, said Driscoll.
“We’re going to make sure everyone can be promoted, every small business can benefit, and every Main Street can feel the love as we tell these authentic stories,” she said.
Healey said the more people who get involved, the bigger the boost for the state. She encouraged folks to “get fired up” and find out more at massachusetts250.org.
View article: https://www.boston.com/travel/local-news/2024/09/17/massachusetts-250-events-american-revolution-news-state-house/
