From the office of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton:
“After reading recent reporting indicating that the Trump Administration plans to install permanent fencing around Lafayette Square, the public park in front of the White House, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) announced her intention to introduce a bill to prohibit permanent fencing at the park.
“Lafayette Square belongs to the people, not to the president. This bill is about keeping faith in the idea that democracy works best in the open, where the First Amendment protects citizens’ rights to assemble, speak, and be seen and heard by their government,” Norton said. “While I understand the importance of protecting the White House, it’s already surrounded by a 13-foot-high fence. We can and must maintain our commitment to security without sacrificing public access by using the least restrictive means necessary to address security concerns. Just as I oppose permanent fencing at the Capitol and the Supreme Court, I oppose turning Lafayette Square into another restricted zone separated from the public by intimidating barriers. (more…)
