America250 flag now flies over Kaua‘i

A symbol of the upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026 of the signing of the Declaration of Independence now flies over the Garden Isle in addition to the U.S. flag.

Kaua‘i was allotted four America250 flags by the Hawai‘i Semiquincentennial Commission to mark the special anniversary.

One was given to the Kapa‘a High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program, one to the Waimea High School Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program, one to the Pacific Missile Range Facility and one to Kaua‘i County.

U.S. Congress in 2016 created the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and its nonprofit partner America250 Foundation to collaborate with affiliates at all levels to educate, engage and unite Americans in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration’s signing.

Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green in 2023 also formally established the Hawai‘i Semiquincentennial Commission — also known as the Hawai‘i America250 Commission.

Commissioners were tasked with coordinating statewide efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which according to a proclamation by Kaua‘i County Mayor Derek Kawakami played a significant role in the development of the national heritage of the United States, as well as individual liberty, representative government and attainment of equal and inalienable rights.

It’s signing and the events leading up to the historic event also “have had a profound influence throughout the world.”

“Throughout 2025 and 2026, communities across the islands will reflect on our shared past, celebrate our diverse heritage and honor our veterans and ancestors through events grounded in local culture and the spirit of aloha,” says the America250 Hawai‘i website. “The Hawai‘i America250 Commission, supported by our numerous commemoration partners, are leading efforts statewide to ensure our islands’ voices help shape this national commemoration.”

The Hawai‘i Semiquincentennial Commission consists of at least two members from each of the state’s four counties, including Kaua‘i County.

“It is appropriate that the County of Kaua‘i engages fully with our past and looks toward a shared future,” Kawakami says in his proclamation.

Visit the America250 Hawai‘i website for additional information.

“On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” says the America250 Foundation website. “The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.”