During this first gathering of states to plan for 250th anniversary of American independence, planners from 34 states and more than 50 Virginia localities gathered in Williamsburg for a weekend of collaboration, cooperation, and education.

Mirroring the Committees of Correspondence, through which colonies began to communicate and unify action, A Common Cause to All catapulted Virginia into a national leadership role for the semiquincentennial, convening planners, seeking partnerships, and sharing information. The event was overwhelmingly well-received, with a chorus of requests for the continuation of such convenings each year.

The nearly 300 attendees engaged in presentation of the latest data on what Americans are looking for in the 250th, networking opportunities, and inspiration provided by the commission and its partners, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture and the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.

Culminating the weekend, an emotion-packed Closing Ceremony was held on the steps of the Raleigh Tavern, where Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other members of Virginia’s Committee of Correspondence met, 250 years earlier. Delegates unanimously adopted a Resolution of the States Gathered in Partnership, pledging to join in a new common cause – for all Americans to unite in reflection, celebration, and aspiration as we continue our national journey together.

In The News

Finding Our Common Cause for America’s 250th Birthday

March 23, 2023
Source: Time Magazine

Gearing up for America’s 250th birthday, Colonial Williamsburg honors critical first step

Printable PDF Version
March 14, 2023
Source: Virginia Gazette

Organizers gather in Williamsburg to begin planning for America’s 250th anniversary

March 12, 2023
Source: 13 News Now

Virginia is ready to mark an American milestone

March 9, 2023
Source: Travel Courier

VA250, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation to Host Nation’s First Planning Event for America’s 250th

March 8, 2023
Source: WY Daily

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