Today's DAR
With just two days until Independence Day, take a moment to reflect on what our ancestors were experiencing at this very moment so many years ago — knowing that independence was within reach and that the future of a new nation rested in their hands. Today, we have a remarkable opportunity not only to celebrate our nation’s journey, but also to renew our commitment to DAR’s mission and purpose. For DAR, this anniversary carries especially profound meaning. Through our Patriot ancestors, we share a personal connection to the soldiers, statesmen, and everyday men and women who united and achieved the extraordinary. Through DAR’s enduring mission of Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism, our members continue the important work of our founders.
For 135 years, DAR has preserved the places, records, and artifacts that bring America’s history to life. I encourage you to continue preserving America’s story through efforts like placing commemorative markers, restoring historic cemeteries, and protecting treasured landmarks. Utilize all DAR’s great Historic Preservation resources — including Historic Preservation Grants, Historic Sites and Properties Database and DAR Marker and Grave Location Index — and find your role in carrying history forward.
The American Revolution was fueled by powerful ideas of freedom, civic responsibility, curiosity, and learning — values that continue to inspire DAR’s commitment to education today. Members support scholarships, literacy programs, educational initiatives, and opportunities that encourage lifelong learning. Through these efforts, DAR connects new generations to America’s history while inspiring them to explore, question, and discover the stories that shaped our nation. Explore DAR’s education resources, including Constitution Week, educational grants, the Education Commission, and traveling exhibits, to discover ways to bring America’s story to life.
Through service, civic engagement, and support for those who serve, patriotism is demonstrated through meaningful action in our communities and beyond. DAR members honor the legacy of their Patriot ancestors by supporting veterans, active-duty service members, military families, first responders, and community organizations. DAR’s patriotism initiatives, including Project Patriot events, VOW Grants supporting women veterans, support of the Military Women’s Memorial, provide opportunities to continue this important work. Together, we can honor the past while strengthening the future through service and dedication to our communities.
As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we are reminded that DAR’s mission is as meaningful today as it was at its founding. I hope you will continue drawing inspiration from our three mission areas of Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism.
