NRPA Statement on Nomination of Congresswoman Deb Haaland for Secretary of the Department of the Interior

SOURCE: National Recreation and Park Association

Kristine Stratton, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) issued the following statement:

"NRPA congratulates Congresswoman Haaland for the nomination of Secretary for the Department of the Interior. She has been a longtime champion for public parks as well as a supporter of funding for increased access to local parks and recreation through her leadership in Congress. She was a vocal supporter of the Great American Outdoors Act, legislation passed this year that will greatly increase funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Additionally, Haaland has championed the Outdoors for All Act, legislation that expands access to outdoor recreation areas in underserved communities.

The historic nature of this pick cannot be overstated. Congresswoman Haaland will be the first Native American to lead the Department of the Interior, which oversees tribal issues. Her background and perspective will be a great value as we at NRPA continue our mission to ensure that everyone has access to the health, environmental and social benefits of parks and recreation.

Under Congresswoman Haaland’s leadership, the Department of Interior can make equity a primary focus. We look forward to working together to ensure equitable funding for park and recreation infrastructure, increased access to the outdoors, and bringing the many benefits of local parks and recreation to all people."

About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.