Bolinsky Proud to Represent Newtown at State Capitol America 250 Recommitment Ceremony

HARTFORD – With a real sense of pride and appreciation for Newtown’s rich history and community spirit, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) represented the Town of Newtown at the Connecticut State Capitol on July 4th for a special America 250 | CT Recommitment Ceremony honoring the ideals and principles of the Declaration of Independence.

The ceremony brought together representatives from towns and cities across Connecticut to celebrate America’s founding values and begin the countdown toward the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026. As part of the event, municipal representatives signed a recommitment document inspired by the Declaration of Independence, reaffirming a shared commitment to liberty, self-government, civic participation, and the freedoms generations of Americans have worked to protect.

“For me, it was humbling to have been asked by our First Selectman to represent our hometown on this special July 4th. I am grateful for the opportunity to add our community’s voice to this historic moment,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “The Declaration of Independence is more than words — it's a promise that each generation must carry forward. Our founders were visionary, building a nation on a foundation of freedom, opportunity, and the belief that government exists to serve the people. Those ideals are every bit as important today as they were in 1776.”

Rep. Bolinsky noted that Newtown’s own history and traditions make the state's Recommitment Ceremony especially meaningful, from honoring veterans and service members, to preserving the stories of those who helped shape our community and nation.

“Newtown is a special place because we value our history, look out for our neighbors, and understand the importance of service,” said Bolinsky. “Whether it’s our veterans who defended our freedoms, our volunteers who strengthen our community, or families teaching the next generation about citizenship and responsibility, the spirit of America lives right here at in the shadow of our Flagpole.”

The ceremony followed an impressive American Legion and VFW-led flag ceremony at the State Capitol's Hall of Flags, proceeding outside for each of Connecticut's 169 towns and cities to sign the Recommitment document - then to the Connecticut State Library, where attendees gathered to recognize Connecticut’s contributions to the American Revolution and America’s continuing journey. 

The signed recommitment document will be preserved in the state archives, along with the state’s copy of the Declaration of independence, the original 1662 Connecticut Charter, and hundreds of other historic documents and artifacts displayed as part of the Connecticut’s Revolution exhibition at the Museum of Connecticut History, at the State Library.

“The 250th birthday of America is a wonderful opportunity to remember where we came from and think about the country we want to leave for our children and grandchildren,” Rep. Bolinsky added. “Our founders gave us an incredible gift. It’s up to all of us to protect it, strengthen it, and pass it on.”

America 250 | CT events and programs will continue throughout Connecticut leading up tom, and beyond the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration in 2026.