Thanks to the Georgia US250 Committee, cities now have innovative ways to help residents connect with their communities and participate in democracy during America’s 250th anniversary.
These efforts go far beyond July 4th festivities. The Georgia US250 Committee — a group appointed by Governor Brian Kemp to commemorate the nation’s Semiquincentennial—has launched the Georgia US250 Civic Literacy and Leadership Initiative, a statewide framework dedicated to promoting civic literacy, respect for history, and patriotism throughout 2026.
The Georgia Department of Education, the Georgia Historical Society, the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), GeorgiaForward, the Georgia Humanities Council, the Georgia Public Library Service and Explore Georgia are collaborating to provide resources, promotional support, and coordination for civic literacy initiatives.
Why Civic Literacy?
At the heart of this initiative is Georgia Reads for America250, a flagship program that positions reading as the foundation for civic understanding. By using books and guided discussions, students explore America’s history, founding principles, and civic ideals, helping them better understand their roles as informed and engaged citizens.
One in 10 Georgia adults is low literate, meaning they have difficulty with everyday tasks like reading instructions, completing forms and understanding signs. Low literacy is a barrier to civic literacy, which is the knowledge of how government operates, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and how citizens can participate in democratic processes.
“Reading is the foundation of civic literacy. The ability to understand complex texts, evaluate information, and consider multiple perspectives is essential to participating in our democracy,” said Bryttney Bailey, project coordinator with the Georgia Council on Literacy, which spearheads the Georgia Reads statewide literacy movement.
“Georgia Reads for America250 highlights this connection by reminding us that strong readers are better prepared to engage as informed citizens,” she said.
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As part of the initiative, Georgia Reads for America250 features a curated reading list for K-12 students designed to spark civic conversations. Libraries and schools can get involved by hosting reading challenges and book discussions that generate dialogue about local history, citizenship, service and shared values.
“By using books as a starting point, libraries can create welcoming and accessible environments where civic engagement feels meaningful for readers of all ages,” Bailey said.
Beyond libraries, the program connects communities through partnerships with GeorgiaForward, a nonprofit affiliate of the Georgia Municipal Association. GeorgiaForward has introduced the program to its Mayor’s Reading Club and youth programming. The Mayor’s Reading Club guide includes program ideas and planning resources, while the youth council guide helps local councils plan, design, and implement civic literacy projects.
“GeorgiaForward has made literacy a priority because it directly impacts our cities’ economies, workforce, and overall quality of life,” said Chan Weeks, GeorgiaForward senior program manager. “Programs like the Mayor’s Reading Club and youth councils give leaders meaningful ways to engage students in civic education and help young people understand how government works.”
Extending Civic Engagement Beyond American250
The initiative extends beyond reading lists and classroom activities. To support Georgia US250 civic literacy efforts, the Georgia Department of Education has launched programs including the Civic Engagement Readiness Test (based on the national citizenship test) and an expansion of the Civic Engagement Diploma Seal. The department also promoted "The Words that Built America" booklets and hosted student-led design contests for the official America 250 commemorative license plate, which launched in January 2026.
“The 250th anniversary of American independence is both a moment to reflect on our history, and an opportunity to help every student understand the founding ideals of our nation and how they continue to guide us today,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said in a statement. “As a former social studies teacher, I’m proud to announce these initiatives that underscore our commitment to teaching the principles that shaped our nation, and I look forward to celebrating throughout the year with Georgia’s students.”
“To sustain the impact of these initiatives beyond the Semiquincentennial, cities must focus on incorporating civic themes into everyday reading and community programming,” Bailey said.
“Libraries and schools can do this by curating diverse reading lists, encouraging discussion and reflection, and partnering with local organizations like the Mayor’s Reading Club to help connect reading to real world experiences,” she said. “When reading is framed as a way to better understand our communities and our role within them, civic engagement becomes something people practice regularly rather than something tied to a single event.”
Resources
Download GeorgiaForward America 250 Resources
View the Georgia Historical Society US250 Collection
Find Georgia Humanities programming and grants for America250
