Protests Erupt at 130 Sites Supporting Park Service Workers

Protests erupted nationwide in response to significant layoffs of federal workers, particularly within the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Forest Service, following actions by the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Demonstrators gathered at various national parks, including Cuyahoga Valley and Camp Nelson, demanding the reinstatement of nearly 1,000 NPS employees and over 3,000 Forest Service workers dismissed for alleged underperformance. Protesters highlighted the layoffs' potential impact on visitor safety and park services, with many emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of the affected workers. In addition to park rangers, former federal employees and union members joined the protests to express their outrage against the firings. Organizers called for increased funding and support for the parks, warning that continued cuts could degrade visitor experiences and park maintenance. As the busy season approaches, concerns mount over the implications of these job cuts on public safety and park operations.