WHEREAS, in 1776, as Virginia declared its independence and helped lay the foundation for a new nation, the Fifth Virginia Convention appointed a committee to create an official seal that would embody the ideals, aspirations, and sovereignty of the newly established Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, on July 5, 1776, the Virginia Convention adopted the Virginia Great Seal, making it one of the oldest official state seals in continuous use in the United States and a lasting symbol of Virginia's enduring commitment to liberty, justice, and self-government; and

WHEREAS, the obverse of the Virginia Great Seal depicts the Roman goddess of virtue, Virtus, standing victorious over tyranny, with the Commonwealth's enduring motto, Sic Semper Tyrannis ("Thus Always to Tyrants"), affirming Virginia's unwavering dedication to freedom, the rule of law, and the rights of the people; and

WHEREAS, for 250 years, the Virginia Great Seal has appeared on official documents, commissions, legislation, and other instruments of state government, serving as an enduring emblem of the authority, heritage, and constitutional traditions of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the symbolism embodied in the Virginia Great Seal has inspired generations of Virginians to uphold the principles of representative government, civic responsibility, and public service while honoring the sacrifices of those who have preserved these freedoms; and

WHEREAS, the 250th anniversary of the Virginia Great Seal provides an opportunity to reflect upon Virginia's pivotal role in the founding of the United States, celebrate the Commonwealth's rich history, and reaffirm the enduring values of liberty, justice, and democratic governance that continue to guide Virginia today;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize July 5, 2026, as 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VIRGINIA GREAT SEAL DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.