New Mexico has launched NM Spirit, an initiative aimed at guiding how the state will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The program was announced by the New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission and is designed to encourage participation from communities across the state.
NM Spirit offers funding, educational resources, and promotional support for local events and programming. The initiative includes a new website, newmexicospirit.org, which provides information about sponsorship opportunities, educational materials for schools and libraries, and details on upcoming informational webinars scheduled for December and January.
“As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, New Mexico has a unique story to tell — one shaped by deep histories, vibrant cultures, and the resilience of our communities,” said Department of Cultural Affairs Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego. “NM Spirit invites every New Mexican to take part in creating programs and events that reflect who we are, where we come from, and the future we aspire to build together.”
The program seeks to bring together a range of partners including schools, nonprofit organizations, tribal communities, businesses, cultural institutions, arts groups, social-service organizations, and youth-focused entities. Through these partnerships NM Spirit aims to support events that highlight New Mexico’s diverse heritage.
Organizations participating in NM Spirit can access funding through the Elevate 1776 Sponsorship Program as well as educational resources via Discover Our Independence. The initiative also offers statewide promotion through event calendars and marketing tools on its web platforms.
Informational webinars have been scheduled for interested organizations: one focusing on sponsorships will be held December 12 from 1:30–2:30 p.m. MST; another on educational initiatives is set for January 20 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. MST.
The New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission was created in 2023 by the state legislature with Senate Bill 106 to plan activities related to this milestone anniversary. As part of its mandate it seeks broad public involvement in commemorating both national history and New Mexico’s own evolving stories of independence.
For more information or to register for upcoming webinars visit newmexicospirit.org.
