Yosemite was the original National Park!

 Before Yosemite was a national park it was renowned for it's beauty. In the middle of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed a groundbreaking law protecting Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove “for public use” and making them “inalienable for all time.” It was the first major federal protection of American land for its natural beauty and helped launch the idea that some of America’s wild places should be preserved for generations to come.

Yosemite is literally the birthplace of the national park idea!

Today, that legacy is at risk. The Roadless Rule continues that tradition by protecting millions of acres of America’s remaining wild forests from unnecessary roads and development. We must not abandon the principle Lincoln helped establish:  some places are too valuable to sacrifice.

Growing up, I’ve spent countless days wandering through the serene landscapes of our National Parks, where the sound of chirping birds fills the air and the scent of pinewood brings a calming sense of escape from bustling city life. These cherished escapes are now under threat due to the Trump Administration's plans to remove the protection for roadless areas within our National Parks, a move that not only endangers wildlife but also jeopardizes our natural heritage and public health.

The roadless areas are critical for preserving ecosystems that many species, including those that are endangered, call home. Roads disrupt natural habitats, leading to increased mortality rates among wildlife. A 2020 study by the University of California found that roads can increase animal mortality rates by 30% in affected areas, a devastating hit to biodiversity. By destroying these untouched areas, we are denying future generations the chance to witness the wonders of pristine nature and compromising our fight against climate change.

The motivation behind this plan is rooted in the interests of wealthy elites looking to profit from resort developments and commercial ventures within park boundaries. According to the National Resources Defense Council, building roads often paves the way for logging, mining, and other environmentally damaging activities, under the guise of economic development. But we the people, who are the rightful stewards of these lands, demand that our parks remain protected for health, education, and recreation.

For public health, preserving these pristine lands is crucial. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights direct links between access to green spaces and reduced stress levels, as well as physical health benefits due to increased exercise. Simply put, these lands act as our lungs, purifying the air and providing a sanctuary for mental well-being, especially during challenging times.

Furthermore, the spectacle of building near sensitive ecosystems during events like the G20 summit in Asheville amplifies the impact on fragile environments and local communities. Instead of demonstrating global leadership in environmental preservation, such actions only contribute to environmental degradation and a narrative of exploitation.

This petition is not just for Yosemite, but for ALL our National Parks!

We must act now to protect our National Parks from irreversible damage. Join me in calling on the federal government and the U.S. Congress to uphold and strengthen the Roadless Area Conservation Rule, ensuring that these irreplaceable treasures remain untouched. Sign this petition to voice your support for nature, public health, and a legacy of preservation that will serve not only the current population, but also generations yet to come. Together, we can make a difference.