Mass Gatherings at U.S. National Parks Over Job Losses

Protesters rallied across national parks from Maine's Acadia to Southern California's Joshua Tree, voicing concerns over perceived risks to public territories.

Coast-to-Coast Demonstrations

In a widespread protest, hundreds united at national parks nationwide on Saturday to oppose the dismissal of over 1,000 employees from the National Park Service last month under the Trump administration.

Resistance Rangers Lead the Charge

The group known as Resistance Rangers, comprising around 700 on-leave or recently dismissed park rangers, initiated efforts to orchestrate protests at all 433 U.S. national park sites. By Saturday afternoon, rallies were reported at 145 locations, according to Nick Graver, a graduate student who was instrumental in rallying supporters at Joshua Tree.

High-Profile and Hidden Gems

The protests spread to renowned parks such as Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone, as well as lesser-known spots like Effigy Mounds in Iowa. Demonstrations at Yosemite were particularly fervent, with employees staging walkouts at key landmarks.

Broader Concerns Spark Protests

Graver highlighted broader issues beyond job cuts, including concerns about resource extraction and the potential reshaping of national monument policies, which he contended could diminish executive powers regarding land preservation.

National Park Service Response

The National Park Service acknowledged the protests, stating they were cooperating with organizers to ensure both the safety of participants and the protection of park resources as people expressed their constitutional rights to free speech.