NM SPIRIT News:
SANTA FE — New Mexico is inviting communities statewide to shape how the state commemorates America’s 250th anniversary with the launch of NM Spirit, a new initiative offering funding, educational resources, and promotional support for local events and programming.
Announced today by the New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission, NM Spirit is designed to explore the nation’s founding through a distinctly New Mexican lens, highlighting the diverse histories and cultures that shape our state’s identity.
The initiative launches with a new website (newmexicospirit.org), a sponsorship program for events, educational resources for schools and libraries, and a literary spotlight — with 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.”
NM Spirit aims to bring New Mexicans together to reflect on the state’s shared history and cultural vibrancy while encouraging statewide participation in this once-in-a-generation commemoration. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, tribal communities, local businesses, and cultural institutions, the initiative will support events, educational programming, and cultural activities that highlight New Mexico’s diverse heritage.
What NM Spirit Offers
Participating organizations will have access to:
- Funding assistance through the Elevate 1776 Sponsorship Program
- Educational resources and materials for classrooms, museums, and libraries through Discover Our Independence
- Statewide promotion and visibility through the NM Spirit event calendar, marketing tools, and web platforms
Who Can Participate
The Commission welcomes participation from:
- Schools, districts, and educators offering civics or history-focused programming
- Libraries, museums, cultural centers, and historical societies
- Community, civic, and nonprofit organizations hosting forums or local heritage events
- Local businesses and artisans involved in cultural fairs or markets
- Tribal Nations, Pueblos, and Native-led organizations
- Arts and performance groups, including music, dance, and theater
- Social-service and youth-focused organizations promoting civic engagement
Upcoming Informational Webinars
Organizations interested in partnering with NM Spirit are encouraged to attend:
- Elevate 1776 Sponsorship Program Webinar | 1:30–2:30 p.m. MST, Dec. 12
- Discover Our Independence Education Initiative Webinar | 4:30–5:30 p.m. MST, Jan. 20, 2026
Partner With NM Spirit
The New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission invites organizations statewide to collaborate in developing inclusive and meaningful commemorations. To explore partnership opportunities, register for webinars, or sign up for updates, visit newmexicospirit.org.
Together, we can commemorate New Mexico’s journey — past, present, and future.
About the New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission
The New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission was established in 2023 by the New Mexico Legislature through Senate Bill 106 to plan, promote, and implement the state’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As the nation observes this historic milestone in 2026, New Mexico reflects on its diverse heritage and evolving stories of independence. The Commission invites all New Mexicans to participate in honoring the past, engaging with the present, and envisioning the future.