Amateur archivists are mobilizing to preserve historical signs in US national parks, fearing the Trump administration may remove references to topics like gender ideology and environmental justice. The effort, known as Save Our Signs, aims to document every sign across more than 400 national parks and historic sites before potential deletions occur.
Jenny McBurney, a government publications librarian at the University of Minnesota, joined the Data Rescue Project last year when the Trump administration began deleting government datasets related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hundreds of volunteers worldwide are now working to archive critical public information they believe is at risk.
KEY FACTS
- Save Our Signs aims to document signs in over 400 US national parks and historic sites.
- The initiative responds to concerns about Trump administration removals of government data on topics like gender ideology and environmental justice.
- Jenny McBurney joined the Data Rescue Project when datasets about diversity, equity and inclusion began disappearing.
- Hundreds of volunteers worldwide are archiving government information they consider at risk.
WHY ARE PARK SIGNS AT RISK?
According to The Guardian, the concern stems from the Trump administration’s previous removal of government datasets and webpages containing certain sensitive topics. While the source doesn’t specify which park signs might be targeted, volunteers are acting preemptively to preserve all signage. The effort parallels similar data preservation projects that emerged during prior administration changes.
WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE PRESERVATION EFFORT?
The movement includes librarians like McBurney and hundreds of other volunteers through initiatives like the Data Rescue Project. These amateur archivists are motivated by concerns that historical information about marginalized communities and environmental issues might disappear from public view. The University of Minnesota serves as one hub for these preservation activities.
WHAT WE KNOW — AND WHAT WE DON’T
Verified by the source:
- The Trump administration has previously deleted government datasets about gender ideology and DEI topics
- Save Our Signs is documenting park signage preemptively
- Hundreds of volunteers are participating worldwide
Still unconfirmed:
- Which specific signs might be targeted for removal
- Whether any park signs have already been altered or removed
- The administration’s official position on national park signage
WHY IT MATTERS
National parks serve as living museums of American history and culture. The potential alteration or removal of educational signs could affect public understanding of important but sometimes controversial aspects of that history. This preservation effort reflects broader concerns about access to information and historical accuracy in public spaces.
WHAT TO WATCH
Whether the Trump administration takes any official action regarding national park signage, and how preservation groups respond to any changes. The Data Rescue Project may expand its efforts if more government datasets appear at risk.