As the Fourth of July approaches, Americans are reminded that the Biden administration’s National Parks Service (NPS) has denied South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s request to have fireworks at Mount Rushmore to celebrate the holiday, according to The Western Journal. The request was reportedly denied three consecutive times.
While previous requests were denied citing environmental concerns and protests of Native American tribes, no reason has been given for the latest denial. KELOLAND News reached out to the agency but a spokesperson reportedly said that the decision was made after careful consideration.
https://twitter.com/KristiNoem/status/1613657185069989890?s=20
2020 was the last year the fireworks were allowed, indicating that the NPS denied the requests every year that Biden has been in office. But when the current administration is not denying fireworks for Independence Day celebrations, it is hosting pride events in Yosemite National Park. The event was reportedly for park staff.
Drag queen and environmentalist Pattie Gonia posted a TikTok showing the pride parade for staff and explained that the event was held for three years in a row, suggesting that the event started when Biden took office. The video caught employees dressed in drag and other colorful attire. Some participants had signs celebrating their orientation.
“No planet, no Pride,” the video added. “Mother Nature is a lesbian. Goodbye.”
The video garnered massive attention and eventually, Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA founder, caught wind of it and posted a video criticizing the way American national parks are being used to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The comment encouraged those who have been disgruntled at the agenda to boycott the park. But the situation also brought some jokes to light.
“What in the bud light at target is going on here,” one user wrote, referencing the controversies that engulfed the brand and store after they pushed for “inclusivity.”
Contrary to “pride,” Independence Day is a national holiday.
