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Kansas 250
On July 4, 2026, America celebrates its semiquincentennial, the commemoration of the 250-year anniversary since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Kansas, we will celebrate America turning 250 years old by sharing the triumphs and the difficulties Kansans faced when settling in the heartland.
“Ad Astra Per Aspera,” To the Stars through Difficulties, is Kansas’ state motto. It was these difficulties that made Kansas a state of strong people who farm and cultivate the Great Plains to champion equality through the Underground Railroad and pivotal court cases like Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka. Kansas has been at the forefront of many historical movements.
Diversity has been a cornerstone contributing to Kansas’ rich history. This includes Native American tribes who originally inhabited the land, African Americans who sought freedom on the frontier, and Latino and Hispanic groups as well as other immigrants who helped build the state’s infrastructure and
economy. Kansas has always been a mosaic of cultures. Despite facing significant challenges, including racism and discrimination, these communities have persevered, embodying the state motto, “Ad Astra Per Aspera.” Their resilience and determination have shaped Kansas into a state that values inclusion and contributions of all people.
Many Kansans are familiar with the state motto, “Ad Astra Per Aspera,” or “To the Stars, Through Difficulties.” Much is made of the beginning, “Ad Astra.” It is ambitious and forward-thinking. The phrase invokes victories and celebrations.
We at Kansas 250 embrace that aspirational message as we gather stories of those who settled in our state. This time, however, we reflect on the second part of the phrase to reflect on “Per Aspera,” or “Through Difficulties.” Living in Kansas has involved difficulties. It did not matter to the land or the climate if one was of Indigenous, European, African, Asian, or Latin descent; Kansas was a great equalizer. Sometimes, the difficulties involved clashes of ideas and values or economic challenges. In other times, it was the determination to improve and do better and go beyond what was easy or just good enough. The key part of this phrase is “Per” or “Through” those obstacles. Kansans did not shy away from what they confronted. They persevered and endured and, in the end, moved forward to greater things.
As America marks its 250th anniversary, it is a time to honor the contributions of Kansas and the individuals who have shaped our history. It is through these difficulties and differences that Kansans can unite and share their stories to celebrate the growth, humility, and strength that makes Kansas a great state; where we can inspire future generations to continue building a better, more inclusive society.
Now we want to hear your story, your history here in Kansas. We want to hear how you and yours made it “through” the difficulties to thrive where you are today. Join us as we celebrate all the different threads that wind together to form the beautiful tapestry that is Kansas as we continue into the future, “Per Aspera”.
Kansas 250 Commission