Cultural Heritage Partners, our founders Greg and Marion Werkheiser, and the D.C. Preservation League have taken a significant step by filing a lawsuit to protect the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, a monumental site in the heart of Washington, D.C. Our fight is to prevent any irreversible damage to this historic building and to uphold the integrity of laws like the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Environmental Policy Act designed to safeguard our cultural heritage. 

The lawsuit, filed against President Trump, the General Services Administration, and the National Park Service, presented evidence to the court that painting the building’s polished granite and porous slate surfaces will trap moisture and deteriorate the building, and preparing polished granite for painting requires abrading its surface, inflicting harm that cannot be reversed. The threat of permanent harm and visual effects to the building and adjacent landmarks triggers requirements for a public process under the National Historic Preservation Act and National Environmental Policy Act.

The Eisenhower Executive Office Building, located adjacent to the White House, is a masterpiece of the 19th-century Second Empire architectural style, a National Historic Landmark, and a vital piece of our national history. It has hosted countless important government functions and decisions that have shaped our nation. Any alterations to its structure demand not only adherence to environmental and historic preservation laws but also thorough consultation with the public, which is distinctly lacking in the current administration's plan.

We urge the Trump administration to respect and follow the existing environmental and historic preservation laws, ensuring a full consultation with the public concerning any proposed changes to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. Rash action will permanently damage the historic building, saddle the taxpayer with massive ongoing maintenance costs, and alter one of the most sensitive historic areas in the nation.

Sign the petition now to show your support for this irreplaceable building and the nation's bedrock historic preservation laws.