TL;DR
A new feedback system in U.S. National Parks elicited over 35,000 responses, mostly sarcastic and critical, in protest of government efforts to alter the portrayal of American history. The comments reveal widespread public disapproval of recent government actions.
Over 35,000 comments, mostly sarcastic and critical, were submitted via a new feedback system in U.S. National Parks, protesting government efforts to modify or remove signs referencing sensitive aspects of American history.
In May 2025, President Trump signed an executive order instructing federal agencies to review how history is presented at National Park Service (NPS) sites, leading to the removal or alteration of signs related to climate change, slavery, LGBTQ+ rights, Native American treatment, and Japanese internment. To gather public input, NPS installed QR codes linking to an online feedback form at hundreds of sites. The response was overwhelmingly negative, with many comments mocking or condemning the government’s actions. The Sierra Club obtained and published these comments through a Freedom of Information Act request, revealing a broad spectrum of public sentiment—from articulate rebuttals to profanity-laced rants. Notably, the comments include frequent use of the acronym “FDT” (F*** Donald Trump). Some responses lampooned specific signs, such as one at the Grand Canyon sarcastically lamenting being told to stay hydrated, or a visitor at Palo Alto Battlefield criticizing nearby rocket launches. Others mocked signage about driving speeds at Joshua Tree or disparaging signs at Craters of the Moon, claiming they insult Americans’ supposed resilience or patriotism. Several comments targeted the names and representations of historic figures and sites, with some sarcastically suggesting that signs be replaced with overly patriotic or exaggerated narratives.
Why It Matters
This backlash underscores significant public opposition to government efforts to reshape the portrayal of American history in national parks, reflecting broader political and cultural tensions. The comments reveal distrust and frustration toward federal authorities, and highlight how government policies can provoke public outcry, especially when perceived as revisionist or disrespectful. The response also demonstrates the power of social and digital media in mobilizing and expressing dissent against official actions.
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Background
In 2025, the Trump administration initiated a review of historical signage at NPS sites, citing concerns over signs that ‘disparage’ Americans. This led to the removal or alteration of signs referencing contentious topics like slavery and climate change. The move was part of a broader effort to reframe American history, which faced criticism from historians, activists, and the public. The new feedback system was intended to gauge visitor opinions but instead became a platform for widespread mockery and protest, with responses collected over several months and published in May 2026.
“I feel disparaged! What if I want to get dizzy, stumble around, vomit, and die a slow horrible death? It’s my RIGHT as an American to die from my poor choices.”
— Anonymous park visitor
What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear how the National Park Service or Department of the Interior will respond to this public backlash, whether the feedback system will be modified, or if further signage changes are planned. The full extent of government policy adjustments based on this protest is also not yet known.
What’s Next
Next steps include potential official responses from NPS or Interior Department officials, possible revisions to signage policies, and continued public engagement or criticism. Further analysis of the impact of this backlash on policy decisions is expected as government agencies assess the public’s reaction.
Key Questions
What prompted the creation of the feedback system in national parks?
It was part of an executive order signed by President Trump in May 2025, instructing federal agencies to review how American history is portrayed at NPS sites, leading to the installation of QR codes for public comments.
What kind of comments did visitors submit?
The comments ranged from articulate rebuttals to profanity-laden rants, with many mocking or criticizing the government’s efforts to alter historical signage. Frequent use of sarcasm and the phrase ‘FDT’ appeared in over 4,000 comments.
Will the government change its approach based on this backlash?
It is not yet clear how officials will respond. No official statements have been made about halting or reversing signage changes, but the volume and tone of responses could influence future decisions.
Are there plans to remove the feedback system?
This has not been announced. Authorities may consider modifying or discontinuing it if backlash continues or if it is deemed counterproductive.
Source: Outside
