1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

Our national parks face an existential threat from the destructive policies of the current administration. Parks are being dismantled - park staff fired, building leases terminated, historical narratives erased. The situation is dire. For over a century, the National Park Service protected our natural wonders and cultural heritage for all Americans. These places provide unparalleled beauty and invaluable knowledge about our past to guide our future. Research proves conserving public lands is vital, yet the administration enables drilling, mining, staff cuts, and facility closures, unraveling over 100 years of protection. Reduced staffing already limits hours and closes sections. Our parks cannot be allowed to deteriorate or be exploited. They belong to the American people and must be preserved. Officials at every level need to support protecting our parks and forests by voting accordingly and introducing protective legislation. If they do not, our votes will go elsewhere. We have a civic duty to ensure our leaders take immediate action reinstating protections, funding, and support before irreversible damage is done. The essence of who we are as a nation is at stake.