Lyons secures special status for Northern Ireland in US 250th anniversary celebrations
Date published:
Northern Ireland will have special status in the 250th anniversary celebratory event to mark the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced.
The Minister secured the unique role, underpinned by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), in his discussions with America250 Chair Rosie Rios, Commissioner Joe Crowley and Interim Executive Director Jen Condon in Washington DC.
Speaking after the productive meeting the Minister said:
“I am pleased to have secured this agreement and to announce that Northern Ireland will have special status next June during a major international event and celebration.
“The Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared vision to celebrate our historic connections and underscores the vital role the Ulster-Scots played in shaping America.
“This is an exciting moment to promote our culture, heritage and future collaboration with the United States.”
The MOU, which will be developed in the coming months, will outline a framework for cooperation including cultural exchanges, educational programmes and events, both in Northern Ireland and the United States as part of America250’s initiative.
Representatives from America250 expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting Northern Ireland’s historical significance and the potential for an exciting, collaborative programme. Further details of the MOU and planned activities will be announced as they develop.
"As we prepare for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we recognize the deep and lasting ties between the United States and Northern Ireland,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “I’m excited to invite Northern Ireland to participate in our celebrations next year, recognizing our shared history and the invaluable contributions of those with Northern Irish heritage to America’s story. I look forward to working together to create meaningful moments of reflection and connection as we mark this historic milestone."
The discussions highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between Northern Ireland and the United States, recognising the significant contributions of Ulster-Scots to the founding and development of the United States. Minister Lyons emphasised the unique opportunity this milestone presents to showcase Northern Ireland’s shared heritage and strengthen transatlantic relationships.
Minister Lyons concluded:
“This is about more than history – it is about building a legacy of connection and opportunity. I look forward to seeing this partnership come to life over the next year and beyond.”
The meeting with America250, the Congressional Commission planning the 250th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, is part of a series of Ministerial meetings in Washington this week to further promote the powerful heritage connections between Northern Ireland and the United States.
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: L-R Kathryn Thompson, National Museums NI, James Applegate, US Consul General, Joe Crowley, America250 with Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, Jen Condon, America250 and Gordon Milligan, National Museums NI in Washington DC.
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