Barbara Tulipane, CAE, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), issued the following statement in response to the violence in Charlottesville and the protests in Emancipation Park.

“There are barely words strong enough to convey how sickened we are by the violence that erupted during the protests by neo-Nazis and white supremacists this past weekend in Charlottesville.

Parks should be a gathering place for all people, but not if the purpose of that gathering is to incite violence, hatred and bigotry.

This hatred and bigotry caused a woman who was passionate about justice and fairness to tragically and unnecessarily lose her life.

NRPA stands against those that would take our country backward — undoing the work of our mothers, fathers and grandparents in World War II and the Civil Rights Movement. We unite with those who embrace the power of diversity and will continue to work toward a better future by promoting social equity through parks and recreation.”

Social equity is one of NRPA’s guiding pillars. 

About The National Recreation and Park Association 
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.