Communities Minister has announced funding of
£250,000 for organisations to mark the 250th anniversary of
the Declaration of Independence.
The Minister made the announcement during a US/NI Cultural
Working Group meeting and hopes the funding will help local
organisations celebrate the heritage links between Northern
Ireland and the United States in the run up to the 250th
anniversary.
Minister Lyons said: “We have always had strong cultural and
historical bonds with the United States with early settlers from
Northern Ireland playing a significant role in communities across
the US. To highlight this landmark 250 year anniversary, I
will be providing £250,000 of funding to ensure Northern Ireland
can celebrate this historic event.
“During a recent trip to Washington, I met with representatives
from America250, the Congressional Commission planning the 250th
anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of
Independence, to discuss how Northern Ireland can play a key role
in the celebrations. These ongoing discussions have further
strengthened the high-level, collaborative relationships we have,
and I am keen to explore practical ways we can continue to work
with the US/NI Working Group to celebrate the anniversary and
give a voice to our shared heritage.
“The celebrations planned in 2026 offer a fantastic opportunity
for Northern Ireland to be part of this historic milestone, to
strengthen relationships with the US and promote our shared
cultural connections. This funding announcement will
encourage more local people to celebrate our place in the
founding of modern America and to mark the global impact of the
Declaration of Independence.”
Further information on how organisations can apply for funding
will be announced in the coming months.
