National Park Service Faces Backlash Over Admission Policy Changes

Sun Dec 07 2025 04:32:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a controversial move, the National Park Service has introduced new free admission days that celebrate Donald Trump while removing significant civil rights holidays. Amidst accusations of racism and disregard for Black history, the change has sparked a national outcry.

The National Park Service will implement a new free admission policy starting January 1, designating President Trump's birthday as a free day while eliminating Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the list. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from civil rights leaders and lawmakers, who argue it undermines the importance of Black history and civil rights recognition.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The National Park Service is set to implement a controversial new policy for free admission days, specifically choosing to honor President Donald Trump's birthday next year, which coincides with Flag Day, while removing access on both Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth.

This recent shift in policy reflects a broader trend observed during the Trump administration, where significant gestures towards America's civil rights history seem to be downplayed in favor of initiatives that enhance the president's public image.

Last year's admission list included Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, but lacking recognition for Trump's birthday, a change was anticipated. The Park Service's announcement points to several new admissions days, which now include Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Constitution Day, Veterans Day, President Theodore Roosevelt's birthday on October 27, and the anniversary of the Park Service on August 25.

Opposition has mounted from civil rights advocates and lawmakers, labeling the change as a blatant act of racial insensitivity. Prominent civil rights figures, including former NAACP president Cornell William Brooks, criticized the removal of these vital historical observances.

Kristen Brengel, of the National Parks Conservation Association, expressed concerns that Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a designated day of service for community organizations, is particularly important for honoring his legacy, emphasizing the need for recognition on significant civil rights occasions.

Democratic lawmakers echoed this sentiment, demanding accountability for the decision to prioritize Trump's birthday celebrations over meaningful cultural holidays that recognize the challenges faced by Black Americans.

The rationale behind these significant policy changes remains unclear as the National Park Service has not elaborated on their decisions since the announcement.