A closed-door White House cultural event last month offered a glimpse into how the Trump administration plans to mark America's 250th anniversary, with a strong emphasis on the nation's religious foundations. The gathering featured Broadway star Laura Osnes singing 'America the Beautiful' and included discussions about the National Garden of American Heroes, a planned patriotic sculpture garden.

Hosted by the National Endowment for the Humanities and Task Force 250, the event brought together nearly two dozen panelists from Trump-aligned entertainment, arts, and academic circles. Speakers included evangelical writer Eric Metaxas, Hillsdale College constitutional scholar Matthew Spalding, and representatives from religious colleges and 'values-based' entertainment companies. The administration recently canceled all previous humanities grants before pivoting to support Trump's 'America First' agenda.

The event previewed several initiatives including 'Young Washington,' a biopic about George Washington's early military career set for July 3 release by Angel Studios. Administration officials also announced plans for 'Rededicate 250,' a 'national jubilee of prayer, praise and thanksgiving' featuring a 'large-scale revival' on the National Mall scheduled for May 17.