Virginia 250
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The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress to inspire all Americans and each American to participate in our greatest milestone ever — the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
We’re charged with orchestrating the largest and most inclusive anniversary observance in our nation’s history. The Commission will work with public and private entities across the country to make America 250 a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all Americans.
DHR's Involvement
America250 and DHR share a common commitment to preserving and honoring historical heritage. While America250 aims to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States at a national level, DHR focuses on fostering the stewardship of Virginia’s significant historic resources, both contributing to the broader goal of preserving and celebrating our collective past.
Commission on Historical Statues in the United States Capitol
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The Commission on Historical Statues in the United States Capitol is charged with determining whether the Robert E. Lee statue in the National Statuary Hall Collection at the United States Capitol should be replaced (which it did recommend) and to recommend to the General Assembly as a replacement a statue of a prominent Virginia citizen of historic renown or renowned for distinguished civil or military service to be commemorated in the National Statuary Hall Collection.
DHR's Involvement
The Commission on Historical Statues and DHR both share an interest in the preservation and commemoration of historical figures and their contributions. While the Commission focuses specifically on evaluating and recommending statues in the National Statuary Hall Collection, DHR’s mission to steward Virginia’s historic resources aligns with the Commission’s goal to select a replacement statue representing a prominent Virginia citizen with a notable historical legacy or distinguished service.
Virginia Indian Advisory Board
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In 2016, the General Assembly passed HB 814 directing the Secretary of the Commonwealth to establish a Virginia Indian advisory board “to assist the Secretary in reviewing applications seeking recognition as a Virginia Indian tribe and to make recommendations to the Secretary, the Governor, and the General Assembly on such applications and other matters relating to recognition”.
Unlike other advisory boards, this board does not advise the Governor, Secretary, or General Assembly on any matters other than groups’ state recognition applications.
DHR's Involvement
DHR Director Julie Langan serves as an Ex-Officio member of the Virginia Indian Advisory Board.
