Official photo of David Vela
NPS Photo

Deputy Director David Vela issued the following statement regarding the National Park Service and issues of equity, justice, and the fight against systemic racism

June 10, 2020 - “Through their voices and actions, individuals across the nation and around the world are addressing racial injustices within the black community. As the stewards of parks who protect the sites and tell the stories of this on-going struggle, I want to convey our voice, the voice of the National Park Service. 

The National Park Service fundamentally rejects behaviors, beliefs, and judgments that erode the rights and freedom of all people. Instead, we seek to create positive and transformative experiences in our parks and programs. Therefore, we understand, and will do more to make what we do more accessible and relevant to all communities. 

We believe in the power of nature and the history of resistance to inspire, educate, and promote fundamental change. The National Park Service protects places where our nation has struggled with issues of race, equity, and systemic violence...from the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home in Mississippi, to the duty station of the Buffalo Soldiers at the Presidio in California, the Frederick Douglass home in Washington DC, Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas, and the path of the marchers from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. These and other places in our care honor the sacrifices of people who fought to advance social justice and human rights. 

We also have a long history of First Amendment rights and efforts taking place on our public lands throughout the NPS; the National Mall has served as a venue for people to exercise their First Amendment rights since its creation in 1791. Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However, the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources.  

Upholding our duties during the added stress and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is outside anything we have experienced before. However, we remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of park visitors, employees, and the natural and cultural resources of national parks that we are entrusted to protect. 

To be a part of change, we must be allies for equity and equality and work against all racism. But words without action have no meaning. Together with our partners and supporters, the National Park Service commits to putting all communities first.  

We will engage in more dialogue with communities who have been missing from the discussions for far too long—so that we are able to better understand and respond to what they want and need from parks and programs. 

Guided by our staff and partners, we will better engage those outside our organization and do the necessary work to be genuinely inclusive. National Park Service leadership is committed to be a champion for an organizational culture that is increasingly inclusive and participatory, which values the diverse ideas, experience, and background of every individual, and empowers an innovative, flexible, and resilient NPS to engage future opportunities and challenges.  

As an organization, we will be implementing strategies to help us with this important work as we engage and provide a second century of service. We are thoroughly committed to an ongoing and sustainable conversation with resulting products and outcomes for the benefit of current and future generations.” 

David Vela 
Deputy Director 
Exercising the Authority of the Director
Source: NPS