Connecticut, We Can Do Better Than One

By Paddi LeShane, CEO, Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations, Inc.

As our nation approaches its 250th birthday, a remarkable initiative is underway.

The folks at Together for 250, an independent, business-led initiative that invites companies, chambers, and business associations to recognize this anniversary by writing uplifting American stories of ingenuity, resilience, and opportunity. At the center of the campaign is A Birthday Letter to America, where business leaders are sharing what America’s 250th means to them, what they stand for, and what they believe this country can be. Not a corporate statement. Not a press release. A genuine letter, in their voice, marking this generational milestone. A friend of mine from Business for America gave me the heads up on the campaign, and I was excited to check it out.

It’s a simple but powerful idea. Businesses are more than places of commerce. They are part of the fabric of our communities. They employ our neighbors, support local causes, help grow our economy, and often serve as a reflection of the values we hold dear.

The goal is not political. It’s patriotic.

It’s an opportunity for business leaders to reflect on what has made America successful and what will be required to ensure the next 250 years are as strong as the first.

Which brings me to Connecticut. During the American Revolutionary War, Connecticut was known as “The Provision State.” The nickname came from Connecticut’s critical role in supplying the Continental Army with food, livestock, weapons, ammunition, clothing, and other essential materials. While many battles were fought elsewhere, Connecticut became a vital logistical hub that helped sustain General George Washington and his troops throughout the war.

As of June 20th, according to the Together for 250 website, only one Connecticut company had submitted a birthday letter.

One. Really? Huge gratitude to BLS Research & Consulting of East Haven for taking the initiative to kick off the campaign. But we need you to step up and submit your thoughts, inspirations, and wishes for the next 250 years for America.

As one of the original thirteen colonies, Connecticut helped shape the very principles and institutions that became the foundation of this country. From innovation and manufacturing to education, healthcare, finance, agriculture, and public service, our state has always punched above its weight.

Surely, we have something to say. Surely, Connecticut’s business community has hopes for America’s future. Surely, we can do better than one.

So, here’s Letter #2 – my contribution.

My birthday wish for America is actually pretty simple.

As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, my wish is that we remain true to the principles that have guided this nation since its founding—freedom, opportunity, personal responsibility, service to others, and the belief that every person has a voice worth hearing.

I also hope we rediscover something that seems increasingly rare today: the ability to disagree without being disagreeable.

Throughout my career, I have worked with business leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, public officials, nonprofit organizations, and community advocates. While their perspectives often differ, most want the same things: opportunity for their families, safe and vibrant communities, and confidence that tomorrow can be better than today.

Too often, disagreements become personal and conversations become contests. I believe we can do better.

Civility does not require us to abandon our beliefs. It requires us to respect the dignity of others, listen with an open mind, and recognize that no one has a monopoly on good ideas.

America has never been strongest when everyone agreed. It has been strongest when people with differing opinions came together around a common purpose and a shared commitment to a better future.

On this historic birthday, my wish is simple: may we preserve the freedoms that define America, embrace the values that sustain it, and ensure the next generation is ready to carry the promise of this nation forward.

Happy Birthday, America. Here’s hoping the principles we fought for 250 years ago thrive for another 250 years.

To join, reach out to: https://tf250.us/ or https://www.bfa.us/.