A federal judge in Massachusetts has ordered the Trump administration’s Interior Department to restore exhibits and educational displays related to race, sexuality, and climate that were removed from national parks earlier this year.
RAW STORY reports, Angel Kelley, a U.S. District Judge in Massachusetts, issued the ruling on Friday and directed the administration to reverse the changes made under a controversial Interior Department initiative. The exhibits were reportedly removed as part of an effort spearheaded by Doug Burgum, who described the initiative as “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.”
However, Judge Kelley concluded that the government’s actions improperly limited the historical information available to the public.
Court Says National Parks Must Present History in Full
In her ruling, Kelley emphasized the educational role that national parks play throughout the United States.
“The National Park system serves as a cornerstone of public learning, providing rich and informative signs, exhibits, and interpretive waysides on topics ranging from civil rights to environmentalism,” Kelley wrote.
The judge argued that the administration’s actions amounted to presenting a selective version of history.
“Under the guise of promoting American dignity, this Administration seeks to share a limited history by ordering the removal of all signs, displays, and interpretive exhibits at National Parks that do not align with its preferred narrative, thereby telling half-truths.”
Kelley stated that public institutions have a responsibility to provide historical information that is accurate, complete, and reflective of the nation’s diverse experiences.
Judge Warns Against ‘Government-Sanctioned Erasure’
The ruling further noted that national parks function as one of the country’s largest educational resources.
According to reports, Kelley described the National Park Service as “America’s largest classroom” and said the federal government has an obligation to preserve historical integrity rather than promote selective narratives.
The judge warned that removing exhibits focused on race, sexuality, and climate could contribute to public distrust.
“Government-sanctioned erasure and rejection of their histories can lead to public mistrust,” Kelley wrote.