In a controversial move, the Department of the Interior has announced that Americans will enjoy free access to national parks on Donald Trump’s birthday next year. Conversely, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth have been removed from the list of fee-free days, highlighting a shift in priorities regarding national park accessibility.
This decision, framed as part of “resident-only patriotic fee-free days,” raises questions about the inclusivity of national park policies and reflects broader discussions on commemorating significant historical figures and events in American civil rights history.
Key Developments
- Donald Trump’s birthday will be recognized as a fee-free day for national park entry.
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth have been removed from this list.
- Other dates removed include the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act and National Public Lands Day.
- The U.S. Interior Secretary emphasized affordable access for American families while raising fees for international visitors.
Full Report
Policy Changes
The Department of the Interior has implemented what it calls “America-first entry fee policies.” Under these guidelines, U.S. residents will enjoy reduced pricing, with annual passes set at $80 for residents and $250 for non-residents. For the 11 most visited national parks, non-residents will be charged a $100 entry fee plus the standard fee.
Statements from Officials
In comments surrounding the policy changes, U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated, “President Trump’s leadership always puts American families first.” He argued that these changes ensure taxpayers receive fair treatment, while international visitors contribute higher fees toward park maintenance and improvements.
Controversial Recognition
The decision to designate Trump’s birthday as a free entry day coincides with other efforts to honor the former president, including the recent renaming of the U.S. Institute of Peace building after him. This multifaceted approach has attracted attention and sparked debate regarding the prioritization of different historical narratives in public spaces.
Context & Previous Events
Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 during President Joe Biden’s administration, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States. The Great American Outdoors Act, passed in 2020, aimed to secure funding for the maintenance and improvement of national parks, while National Public Lands Day serves as a celebration of America’s public lands.
