Chief justices, state court administrators reaffirm commitment to the rule of law ahead of America's 250th anniversary
Williamsburg, Va. (July 2, 2026) — As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the nation's chief justices and state court administrators have issued a joint statement reaffirming the enduring principles of liberty, equality, self-government, and the rule of law that have guided the country since its founding.
The joint statement, issued by the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ) and the Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA), was developed in partnership with the CCJ/COSCA Public Engagement, Trust, and Confidence Committee and approved by the CCJ and COSCA boards. It recognizes the essential role of state courts in preserving these foundational principles through the fair, impartial, and independent administration of justice.
The statement calls on courts across the country to use the nation's semiquincentennial as an opportunity to strengthen civic education, expand public engagement, and foster greater understanding of the judiciary's role in our constitutional democracy. Through courthouse events, educational partnerships, public programs, and other outreach efforts, courts can help their communities better understand the rule of law and the vital work of the judicial branch.
"The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence provides an opportunity to reflect on our nnation's founding ideals while reaffirming the judiciary's enduring commitment to equal justice under law," the joint statement states. "State courts play a vital role in protecting constitutional rights, resolving disputes fairly and impartially, and preserving public confidence in the rule of law."
The statement encourages courts to share the message broadly within their court systems and with community partners while considering ways to participate in local and statewide semiquincentennial commemorations.
The CCJ/COSCA Public Engagement, Trust, and Confidence Committee, with support from NCSC, will continue to identify and share promising practices and resources to help courts engage their communities throughout the anniversary year.
Explore more
Free, to be fair: Courts celebrating America @ 250
This handbook provides practical ways for courts to celebrate America's 250th anniversary while strengthening public trust. It offers outreach and engagement ideas, along with messaging frameworks and examples that courts can tailor to local needs and existing programs.
America 250 opens doors to new partnerships & community trust
America's 250th celebration offers an opportunity for courts to strengthen connections with the communities they serve through education, outreach, and conversation.
Chief justices: State courts are built to withstand the toughest challenges
While each state faces unique challenges, several clear national themes emerge in the 2026 state of the judiciary addresses: courts are operating in an increasingly complex, high-pressure environment, yet remain committed to fairness, accessibility, and the rule of law.