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| DES MOINES – Iowa statewide officials kicked off the state’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary today with a special celebration led by Secretary of State Paul Pate, alongside Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer and Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. The ceremony, hosted at the Iowa State Capitol, marked the launch of Iowa America 250 and the beginning of Iowa’s efforts to honor 250 years of American history and promote civic engagement across the state. A key initiative of Iowa America 250 is the state’s Ready, Set, Vote 250 program, led by Iowa America 250 Task Force member Secretary Pate. The program aims to see 250 voter registration drives hosted across the state within the next year, honoring Iowa’s distinguished history while also recognizing the importance of paving a path toward a strong and enduring future. “For the past 250 years, our nation has been at the forefront of civic engagement and the democratic process,” said Secretary Pate. “We remain committed to championing those values – and one of the most impactful ways to do that is by registering to vote. It’s the first step in making your voice heard at the ballot box and shaping the future of our representative government. Ready, Set, Vote 250 connects Iowa’s rich history with our collective civic future, empowering Iowans to take action today for a stronger tomorrow. ”Iowans are encouraged to take the pledge to host a voter registration drive in their communities at sos.iowa.gov/vote250. The Iowa Secretary of State’s Office will also be honoring Iowa’s rich history through a partnership with the State Historical Society of Iowa. Visitors to the Iowa State Capitol can get a unique glimpse into the state’s democratic history when viewing the rotating display of important historic documents on display next to Iowa’s historic 1857 constitution at the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office on the first floor. Secretary Pate also thanked Iowa America 250 Task Force Chair Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer and Vice Chair Secretary Naig, for their dedication to celebrating Iowa’s legacy and advocating for a more engaged and empowered future. "It’s an honor to be appointed by Governor Reynolds to serve as chair of the Governor's Iowa America 250 Task Force, and an even greater privilege to serve alongside exceptional leaders from across our state also appointed to this important effort,” said Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer. “Iowa has a world-class story to tell — the best people, strongest schools, and a quality of life second to none. Now, we have the opportunity to share that story with the rest of the nation through our Iowa America 250 initiatives.” “America 250 invites us to reflect on the people and values that built this country and continue to sustain it,” said Secretary Naig. “Here in Iowa, those values are deeply rooted in family, faith, hard work, community, and agriculture. For generations, Iowa farmers have carried forward a legacy that helps ensure food, agriculture, and energy security for our nation and provides the stability that allows Americans to dream big and innovate. This is not a top-down celebration, but an open invitation for communities, organizations, and families across Iowa to participate in their own way. I encourage Iowans to embrace this moment, take initiative, and help shape a meaningful and lasting America 250 celebration.” Photos from today's ceremony are available for your use: Secretary Naig, Lt. Governor Cournoyer, Secretary Pate (L to R) Secretary Pate delivers remarks For more information on America 250 celebrations visit: Iowa America 250 website Ready Set Vote 250 website Iowa America 250 task force |
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