First Amendment

First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations at Christiansted National Historic Site (36 CFR § 2.51)

The term “demonstrations” includes demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers.

Christiansted National Historic Site offers 2 designated locations where individuals or groups may exercise their First Amendment rights through demonstrations. A non-fee permit is required for groups over 25 people or if the National Park Service deems further management of the activity is necessary to protect park resources or visitors.

The sale or distribution of non-commercial printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donation, is allowed within park areas if it occurs in designated First Amendment areas.

Who Needs a Permit?

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within designated First Amendment areas, provided that:

• The location can accommodate the group size (see maps and details below). If a different location is requested because of activity or group size, a non-fee permit is required;
• Your group is not an extension of another group already demonstrating in another area of the park;
• They will not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations, special events, or park program activities; site use is granted on a first come-first serve basis with preference given to the permit holder;
• Hand-carried signs may be used. Stages, platforms, structures, or sound systems require a non-fee permit.

If you meet the criteria above, you are welcome to demonstrate in a designated First Amendment site without a permit.

If your planned activity includes components besides the above criteria (including a group of more than 25 people), or if you have questions, please contact the Special Park Use Permits Coordinator at [e-mail] or 340-277-6782.

 

These areas have been set aside for individuals or groups exercising their constitutional First Amendment rights.

NPS

Designated First Amendment Locations

The following locations are predetermined by the National Park Service for First Amendment activities provided the location can accommodate the requested group size. First Amendment participants may not obstruct traffic or approach visitors; all participant vehicles must be legally parked. Group sizes over 25 people will require a permit.

• Bandstand
• David Hamilton Jackson Park

 

How to Apply

First Amendment Permits are free of charge and can be valid up to 7- 14 days at a time. The organizer is requested to provide reasonable notice (preferably 10 business days) of the proposed event to the Special Use Permit Office, including whether there is any reason to believe that there may be an attempt to disrupt, protest, or prevent the activity. Submit application to the Special Use Permits Office.

• First Amendment Activities/Demonstrations and Distribution of Materials (NPS Form 10-934)

Contact

Please e-mail us or call 340-277-6782.