President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence with a grand celebration planned for July 4, 2026. The order establishes a White House task force, chaired by Trump, to organize the event, which will include a new national sculpture garden.
The proposed 'National Garden of American Heroes' will feature statues of 250 historical figures, as initially announced by Trump in 2020. The list of figures, curated by Trump himself, includes names like Davy Crockett, Billy Graham, Whitney Houston, Harriet Tubman, and Antonin Scalia.
Although the garden was never funded by Congress and was abolished by President Joe Biden after his election, Trump's recent order revives the project. This initiative comes amidst a conservative backlash against the removal of statues dedicated to Confederate leaders and slave owners following the George Floyd protests.
In addition to the sculpture garden, Trump's executive order reinstates measures to protect monuments, memorials, and statues from destruction and vandalism. The order calls for the prosecution of individuals or groups responsible for such acts, as well as those inciting violence or illegal activities.
The decision to reinstate these measures was prompted by recent incidents, including an attack on Israel by Hamas and a subsequent invasion of Gaza, as well as a demonstration last June where protesters vandalized statues and structures around the White House with graffiti.
Trump had also outlined plans for a yearlong 'Salute to America 250' celebration during his 2024 campaign. This celebration would include a 'Great American State Fair' in Iowa and 'Patriot Games' featuring high school athletes from across the country, showcasing American skill and sportsmanship.
