RESOLUTION COMMEMORATING JULY 4, 2026, AS THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES AND HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF GENESEE COUNTY TO THE NATION’S HISTORY, INDUSTRY, DEFENSE, AND PROSPERITY
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TO THE HONORABLE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE GENESEE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, GENESEE COUNTY, MICHIGAN
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
WHEREAS, July 4, 2026, marks the 250th Anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America, a milestone known nationally as the Semi quincentennial, commemorating two and one-half centuries of liberty, self-government, and constitutional democracy; and
WHEREAS, the United States has grown from thirteen colonies into a nation of more than 340 million people whose prosperity, innovation, and freedom have inspired generations throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, the residents of Genesee County have contributed significantly to the growth and success of the United States through manufacturing, innovation, military service, education, labor leadership, public service, and community engagement; and
WHEREAS, the City of Flint became one of the most important centers of American manufacturing during the twentieth century and served as a cornerstone of the nation's automotive industry through the growth of General Motors and related industries; and
WHEREAS, during World War II, Flint-area manufacturing facilities were transformed into part of the nation's "Arsenal of Democracy," producing military vehicles, engines, weapons systems, and war materials essential to the Allied victory, while thousands of Genesee County residents served honorably in the Armed Forces in defense of freedom around the world; and
WHEREAS, workers in Flint helped shape the modern American labor movement through the historic Flint Sit-Down Strike of 1936-1937, a 44-day action that led to the recognition of the United Auto Workers and helped establish collective bargaining rights for industrial workers throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, the Flint Sit-Down Strike ultimately affected more than 136,000 General Motors workers, helped transform labor-management relations nationwide, and is widely regarded by historians as one of the most consequential labor actions in American history; and
WHEREAS, the innovation, skill, and dedication of generations of workers, engineers, entrepreneurs, educators, veterans, and public servants from Genesee County have contributed to the economic strength and global leadership of the United States; and
WHEREAS, the 250th Anniversary of the United States provides an opportunity to reflect upon the sacrifices, achievements, and shared values that have united Americans across generations while inspiring future generations to continue the work of building a more prosperous and free nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that this Board of County Commissioners of Genesee County, Michigan, hereby joins communities throughout the nation in commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America and honors the countless residents of Genesee County whose service, labor, innovation, and sacrifice have contributed to the strength and success of our nation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Board encourages all residents, schools, businesses, civic organizations, veterans groups, and community institutions to participate in activities recognizing America's semi quincentennial and to reflect upon the history and contributions of Genesee County to the American story.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution be entered into the official record of the June 10, 2026, Genesee County Board of Commissioner’s meeting and that copies be distributed to local historical organizations, educational institutions, veterans organizations, and community partners.