The Trump administration’s efforts to purge diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) from the federal government have now reached the gift shops at national parks. In a recent memo, acting National Park Service Director Jessica Bowron called for a review of the items available for purchase in park gift shops. The memo states that these items should be reviewed to ensure they align with the administration’s views and values.
This move has sparked controversy and concern among many Americans who see it as yet another attempt by the administration to erase diversity and inclusivity from our society. National parks are meant to be a reflection of our country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, and the gift shops are an important part of that experience. They offer visitors a chance to take a piece of that beauty and history home with them, while also supporting the parks’ conservation efforts.
However, the Trump administration’s push for a review of these items is a clear indication of their narrow-minded and exclusionary agenda. By attempting to control what can and cannot be sold in these gift shops, they are essentially censoring the diverse voices and perspectives that make up our country. This is not only a disservice to the millions of visitors who come to our national parks each year, but also to the very essence of what makes America great – our diversity.
The memo specifically calls for a review of items that may be considered “offensive, controversial, or divisive.” This vague language leaves room for interpretation and could potentially lead to the removal of items that celebrate different cultures, religions, and identities. This is a dangerous precedent to set and goes against the very principles of freedom and acceptance that our country was founded upon.
Moreover, this move also undermines the important role that national parks play in educating visitors about our country’s history and promoting cultural understanding. Many gift shop items, such as books and educational materials, provide valuable information about the diverse communities and cultures that have shaped our nation. By limiting the availability of these items, the administration is hindering the opportunity for visitors to learn and appreciate the richness of our country’s heritage.
It is also worth noting that the national park system itself has a long history of promoting diversity and inclusivity. From the establishment of the first national park, Yellowstone, in 1872, to the recent addition of the Stonewall National Monument, these parks have always strived to represent the diverse landscapes and stories of America. The gift shops are an extension of this mission, and it is disheartening to see the administration trying to erase this important aspect of our national parks.
Fortunately, there has been pushback against this memo from various organizations and individuals who recognize the damaging effects it could have. The National Parks Conservation Association has expressed concern over the potential censorship of educational materials, while Representative Raúl Grijalva, chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, has called for the memo to be rescinded.
It is also important to note that this is not the first time the Trump administration has targeted diversity and inclusion efforts in the federal government. In 2017, they disbanded an Obama-era diversity and inclusion program, and in 2018, they proposed a rule that would limit the consideration of race and gender in college admissions. These actions only serve to further divide our country and undermine the progress that has been made towards creating a more inclusive society.
In conclusion, the Trump administration’s efforts to purge diversity, equity and inclusion from the federal government have now reached the gift shops at national parks. This move is not only concerning but also goes against the very principles that our national parks stand for. It is important that we continue to speak out against these actions and support the diversity and inclusivity that make our country truly great. Let us not allow the administration to erase the voices and stories that make up the fabric of our nation.
