Statement from the President & CEO of the Trust for the National Mall

The National Mall is the most visited national park in the country and home to the most visible and enduring symbols of our nation's remarkable and complex history. At the Trust for the National Mall, we work exclusively in support of maintaining and improving this sacred space for visitors from across the country and around the world. 

Recent events only reinforce the need for an open, inclusive and safe space for Americans to exercise their First Amendment rights and to gather in pursuit of our shared ideals – life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for all. Hate and violence have no place in our public discourse.

In the coming weeks and months, the physical symbols of American history and democracy will be scrutinized and challenged. We understand this debate is likely to extend to the National Mall, including many projects supported by the Trust.  When that happens, we will work with our partners to ensure the National Mall continues to be a vibrant and relevant place where Americans can learn about our history and imagine our future, together. 

I hope you will join us as we steward private support to implement modern and resilient solutions that can transform this dynamic space and preserve the historic legacy of the National Mall. We want to hear from you, and we want to work with you.

Catherine Townsend
President & CEO, Trust for the National Mall