RICHMOND, VA – The voices and artistic expressions of Virginia students on the theme of freedom will be celebrated as part of the "Expressions of Freedom" competition, and preserved in a time capsule to be included in the base of the George Washington Statue in Trafalgar Square. This statewide initiative, created by the VA250 Education Steering Committee, invited students in grades 3–12 to explore and articulate their understanding of freedom as the nation's 250th anniversary approaches in 2026.
“It is inspiring to see students across the Commonwealth reflect on our shared history – giving future generations a window into the hopes and values of this moment in time,” said First Lady of Virginia, Mrs. Suzanne Youngkin. “To all of the talented young artists, writers, and creators who participated in this project, thank you.”
The 11 winners, selected from each Superintendent’s Region of the Commonwealth, was announced on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, with their winning submissions on display from 3:30-4:30 pm in the Virginia State Capitol rotunda. Students responded to the prompt, "What does Freedom mean to you?", submitting original works ranging from essays and artwork to videos and audio recordings. The contest, sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education and VA250, aims to inspire student engagement with America’s semiquincentennial.
"Witnessing the depth of understanding and creative spirit our students have brought to the concept of freedom is truly powerful," said Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Guidera. "These young Virginians remind us that the pursuit and definition of freedom are ongoing, vibrant conversations vital to our Commonwealth and nation's future."
“This was the second year that students from across Virginia have been invited to participate in the Expressions of Freedom Contest. With close to 100 submissions, it is a true testament that students are cued into civic responsibility and the guiding principles of our History and Social Science Standards of Learning by expressing an appreciation of the attributes and actions that have made America an exemplar of freedom, opportunity, and democratic ideals in many creative ways,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson.
During the May 20 ceremony in the State Capitol, the winning entries will be placed in a time capsule that is destined for the restored pedestal of the iconic George Washington statue in Trafalgar Square, London, an exact replica of the Houdon statue of Washington located in the rotunda of the Virginia State Capitol. The London time capsule is set to be opened in 250 years, creating a lasting link between Virginia's students today and future generations.
The Friends of Washington Statue, a historic preservation not-for-profit, has worked closely with First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, on an inspirational symbolic project to restore the iconic landmark image of Washington, honoring the ties between the United States and the United Kingdom with rededication ceremonies and celebratory events in London on June 18, 2025 in the anticipation of the 250th anniversary of American Independence. On May 12, soil was collected at Mount Vernon, to be added to the London statue during the June 18 ceremony.
"The engagement of these students in exploring freedom is a testament to the enduring relevance of our founding principles,” said VA250 Executive Director Cheryl Wilson. “Their winning entries will not only be celebrated today but will also form a historical record for centuries to come, preserved across the Atlantic."
About the Virginia Department of Education
The Virginia Department of Education’s History and Social Science Program is aligned to Virginia’s Strategic Priorities as the standards discuss the importance of providing students an in-depth and honest understanding of the complexities of United States, Virginia and world history. The History and Social Science guiding principles focus on not only the students’ exploration and understanding of history, social science, political, and economic systems and how those intersect, but the important role that they as individuals and collectively play in engaging in the political process to fulfill their civic obligations to maintain our democracy. The Virginia Department of Education has partnered with VA250 with the goal of engaging students across the Commonwealth through extensive studies of history, democracy, and civics in order to promote principles of an informed citizenry and civic engagement.
About the American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250)
Established by the General Assembly in 2020, VA250 serves to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the Independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia. From its founding ideals to its leading figures, more of what made America happen, happened here in Virginia. Which makes Virginia the ideal place to learn about our nation’s beginnings, no matter what state you call home. As America prepares to mark 250 years of Independence, the VA250 invites you to come reconnect with your country, in the place that made it possible. Join us at VA250.org.
