Trump axed a Black history exhibit. Former park rangers are teaching it anyway.
Trump Aided in Removing Black History Exhibit; Former Rangers Push Back
Trump axed a Black history exhibit - President Trump's administration removed a Black history exhibit from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in 2025, prompting a strong reaction from former park rangers. The exhibit, which highlighted the enslaved individuals central to the site's legacy, was part of a broader effort to reshape historical narratives. Elizabeth Kerwin, a former National Park Ranger, had been instrumental in developing the display, aiming to educate visitors on the profound contributions of Black Americans to the nation’s history. The cancellation of the exhibit coincided with the Trump administration’s push to emphasize a more conservative interpretation of history, leading to the removal of dozens of similar displays across federal sites.
The Cancellation of the Black History Exhibit
When the decision was announced, the stone building at Harpers Ferry, originally set to house the exhibit, was left empty and unmarked. The building’s once-vibrant entrance now bore a faded green sign reading "African-American History," a stark contrast to the content that had been planned. Kerwin’s project, which sought to honor the stories of enslaved people and their resilience, was among the first to be axed. Critics argued that the move reflected a deliberate attempt to erase diverse perspectives from the national narrative, especially as the country prepared to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The Resistance Rangers' Response
In the wake of the cancellation, former park rangers formed an informal group called "Resistance Rangers" to counteract the administration's actions. The coalition, which included individuals like Anna Bakalis and Julia Angel, organized community events and educational forums to spotlight the importance of Black history. By aligning their efforts with Juneteenth — the federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas on June 19, 1865 — they aimed to underscore the urgency of preserving these stories. "We’re not just fighting for history; we’re fighting for truth," said Bakalis, who now leads outreach initiatives to ensure the exhibit’s legacy endures.
The Resistance Rangers also leveraged the National Parks Conservation Association to challenge the removal of historical materials. Their advocacy led to a legal victory just days before Juneteenth, when a federal judge ordered the Department of the Interior to stop further deletions and restore the exhibits. The ruling emphasized that history must include the experiences of all communities, particularly those whose contributions are often overlooked. "The erasure of Black history from public spaces is a clear signal of intent to rewrite the past," stated Julia Angel, a former ranger at the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site.
Despite the legal setback, the Trump administration continued its push to redefine historical narratives. The 2025 executive order, which directed federal agencies to "restore truth and sanity to American history," became a rallying point for critics. The order was interpreted as favoring a narrower view of history, one that sidelined the struggles and triumphs of marginalized groups. Resistance Rangers argue that this approach risks creating a sanitized version of the past, one that fails to capture the full scope of American identity.
At Harpers Ferry, the removal of the exhibit sparked a renewed interest in Black history among local residents and visitors. Volunteers from the group Branch4, affiliated with the Resistance Rangers, have taken to the cobblestone streets of the park to educate the public. "This exhibit was more than a display; it was a reminder of the roots of freedom," said Anna Bakalis. "Even without the official space, we’re finding ways to keep those stories alive." The group’s efforts include distributing postcards and hosting interactive talks that connect the park’s past with its present-day significance.
As the summer of 2026 unfolds, the Resistance Rangers continue to amplify their message. Their campaign has drawn attention to the broader implications of the Trump administration’s policies, highlighting how historical narratives are shaped by political agendas. While the exhibit is no longer on display, its absence has only fueled the determination of those who believe in its importance. "History is not a fixed story — it’s a living one," said Julia Angel. "And we’re here to make sure it doesn’t get lost." The fight over Black history in Harpers Ferry is now a symbol of the ongoing debate over how the nation remembers its past.