Americans for Prosperity honor America’s 250th anniversary in Springfield, Illinois
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Americans for Prosperity hosted an event dedicated to celebrating America's 250th anniversary on Thursday, Feb. 12 in Springfield, Illinois.
“I believe the declaration that ‘all men are created equal’ is the great fundamental principle upon which our free institutions rest,” said Abraham Lincoln. These important words still resonate with us today. Americans for Prosperity, a nonprofit political advocacy group that supports individual liberties and the right to pursue happiness, organized a special event celebrating America’s approaching 250th anniversary. It took place just blocks from Abraham Lincoln's former home in Springfield, Illinois on the anniversary of his birth, February 12.
Our Founding Fathers believed that government must be restrained and accountable to the people. Nearly 250 years later, Americans for Prosperity keeps this spirit alive. The organization launched the One Small Step nationwide grassroots initiative that invites every American to keep the founding principles alive: dignity, freedom, opportunity, rule of law, limited government, and civic duty. The event in Springfield amplified this message by celebrating our country, its history, achievements, and its unique nature. It also honored the spirit of courage, self-determination, and the belief that one small step can change the future.
This free family friendly event was held at Bank of Springfield Center and gathered leaders, advocates, and community members to reflect on the ideas that shaped America. The celebration included live music and entertainment by Howl at the Moon Chicago, food, drinks, and activities for kids such as Kid’s Corner with crafts from B’s Creative Studio. The organizers of the event made sure that everyone felt welcomed, happy, and enjoyed every moment of it. More than 500 people attended the event.
“What does the pursuit of happiness mean in 2026” was the main question of the night. Guests were offered the chance to discuss their views in an interview upon entry to the event, part of their One Small Step celebrating America’s 250th birthday. This gathering brought people together to reflect on the freedoms that shaped our country and the steps that keep opportunity alive today.
“We’re excited to welcome Mary Katharine Ham, Jason Chaffetz, and Brian Urlacher for an evening of conversation, reflection, and celebration,” mentioned Americans for Prosperity in their LinkedIn post ahead of the event.
Yes, this beautiful celebration of our country was highlighted by special guest speakers who made that night unforgettable. The opening remarks were presented by AFP Illinois State Director Jason Heffley, followed by the impressive prayer by Pastor Chris Butler from Ambassador Church. Illinois RNC National Committeewoman Rhonda Belford sang the National Anthem.
Tony McCombie, Illinois House Minority Leader, greeted everyone with a powerful message. She was happy to introduce the next speaker, NFL Hall of Famer and former Chicago Bears Linebacker, Brian Urlacher, who was greeted with great enthusiasm. He told about his life, family, the role of sports in his life and his beliefs. He mentioned that he was happy to be on the right side of history. “I wish more people would stand and be more vocal on what they believe in,” he said.
An evening of conversation, reflection, and celebration was continued by Fox News Contributor Mary Katharine Ham and American Potential Podcast Host David From. In their interactive conversation they discussed the Declaration of Independence, pursuit of happiness, and human rights. For David, who has 11 kids, it’s the knowledge that his children can achieve their American dream and pursue happiness the way they want to.
Talking about her children, family, and the pursuit of happiness, Mary Katharine said: “We still have this abundance of choices that other societies don’t have. If you don’t realize that your society is special in that way… you are at risk of losing it.”
Former US Congressman and Head of GA at the US Chapter Rodney Davis gave a powerful message and added more wise words to the event. Former US Congressman and Fox News Contributor Jason Chaffetz spoke about his family, the history of our country, how things change fast in our lives, especially technology, and about the future of America. He also said that he saw Charlie Kirk being shot at the event at Utah Valley University.
That extremely sad situation once again underlined the importance of human life, freedom of speech, safety, and civil ways of solving issues. More than that, the future of America directly depends on the way we handle our disagreements and find ways to collaborate, unite, and stand together. Instead of getting more and more divided, we should help our country flourish and prosper. It can be achieved with One Small Step made by each of us.
The evening was concluded with a birthday cake celebrating Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and even more live music. This inspiring event gave hope that our leaders will keep individual freedom at the heart of our nation’s future and that Americans will always have an opportunity to improve their lives and pursue happiness.
“Freedom is not the right to do what we want, but what we ought,” said Abraham Lincoln. This is the only way to preserve our freedom.
Natalia Dagenhart
02/14/26
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