The United States Postal Service (USPS) has unveiled how it plans to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
Why It Matters
The USPS is older than the United States itself, having been founded in 1775. It became a financially self-sustaining government establishment in 1970 and, according to the Pew Research Center, is one of the most well-liked federal agencies, with a 72 percent approval rate.
Now, the agency serves nearly 169 million addresses in the U.S., delivering more mail and packages than any other postal service in the world, according to the USPS website.
What To Know
In a press release issued on April 25, the USPS has confirmed the anniversary will be marked with a new logo, commemorative stamps, branded merchandise and other events and releases.
A new logo, dubbed Eagle in Flight, will be used for 250th anniversary activities and on branded products. It depicts an eagle about to take to the skies, perched atop the phrase “USPS 250” in the traditional USPS colors of red, white and blue.
Other planned celebrations include releasing commemorative stamps, assorted branded merchandise, a USPS-licensed coffee table book, and a special 250th anniversary edition of The United States Postal Service: An American History, which will be available both online and in print.
There will also be a special episode of the Mail with Mr. ZIP YouTube series focusing on the 250th anniversary, and special advertising campaigns built around the “Delivering since 1775” theme.
The 250th anniversary comes at a time when the future of the USPS seems uncertain.
President Donald Trump has previously signaled that he could support privatizing the USPS. Commenting on possible privatization in December last year, Trump said “it’s an idea that a lot of people have liked for a long time.” Trump adviser Elon Musk has also said he would support bringing the postal service out of public control.
While no official plans for the privatization of the USPS have been made public, postal worker unions have protested against the potential move.
It is no secret the agency has been experiencing financial troubles in recent years, having implemented a 10-year “Delivering For America” to stabilize its finances in 2021. The USPS is self funded, and operates through the sale of postage and postal services.
It reported a $9.5 billion loss in the fiscal year ending in September 2024, compared to a net loss of $6.5 billion in the fiscal year 2023.
What People Are Saying
Acting Postmaster General Doug Tulino said in the press release: “The founders of our great nation saw the intrinsic need of postal services as the United States was born — even before the country itself was formed. Since that time, our universal mail system has strengthened the bonds of friendship, family and community. The Postal Service remains a great organization connecting our nation and helping power our economy. We are proud to help set the stage for the 250th anniversary of the United States next year, and we look forward to continuing to serve the American public for another 250 years.”
What Happens Next
Further updates on activities and releases are to come, the USPS has confirmed.
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