UPDATE: California is taking a stand against the recent decision by President Donald Trump, announcing that over 200 state parks will offer free admission on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 15, 2024. This bold move comes after Trump eliminated free admission for national parks on this significant holiday, stirring controversy across the nation.
In a press conference in San Francisco on Friday, Governor Gavin Newsom revealed that private funds raised by the California State Parks Foundation are being used to cover the costs of vehicle entry for visitors. “While Trump works to erase Dr. King’s legacy, California will honor it,” Newsom declared, emphasizing the state’s commitment to celebrating civil rights.
On Monday, January 15, vehicles with up to nine passengers will be granted free entry to participating parks. A comprehensive list of these locations is available on the California State Parks website. However, some parks may still impose fees, particularly those with specialized areas or guided tours, such as Hearst Castle.
This initiative marks a continuation of California’s resistance to federal policies that undermine significant cultural observances. The NAACP has previously condemned the Trump administration for removing MLK Day and Juneteenth from the list of free entry days, stating that such actions minimize Black resilience and erase crucial aspects of history.
Newsom’s remarks reflect growing frustration over the administration’s decisions. “MLK Day [has] now been shifted to Trump Day. Again, what more evidence do we need on what the hell is going on in the United States of America?” he stated, highlighting the emotional impact of these changes on the community.
The national parks have recently been at the center of additional controversies, including the issuance of new park passes featuring Trump’s image. An environmental nonprofit has filed a lawsuit against the Department of the Interior, claiming this move is illegal, and the department warned that altering the passes could invalidate them.
As the nation prepares to observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Californians and visitors alike can take advantage of this opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King in a meaningful way. The decision to offer free admission serves not just as a local initiative but as a statement against policies perceived to undermine civil rights history.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing discussions surrounding national park policies.
