Statement from The Trust for Public Land

Today, Diane Regas, President and CEO of The Trust for Public Land, issued the following statement:

“We mourn the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and all other Black Americans who have been unjustly killed. This week we have seen just how dangerous simple acts that many White people take for granted can be for People of Color in this country.   
  
The heart of our mission is rooted in our belief that everyone has a fundamental right to enjoy the outdoors —regardless of race, socio-economic status, or zip code.  
  
No one should face a threat of violence while jogging, birding, or visiting with friends. We need a new way forward. In order to do the real work of building a more just society, we must acknowledge the history of racial discrimination, injustice, and violence that has and continues to harm generations of People of Color in this country.  
  
The Trust for Public Land is redoubling our commitment to engage communities in creating inclusive parks and open spaces where People of Color are welcome and safe to enjoy the outdoors.”