News Release

Statement from Acting General Superintendent Cicely Muldoon on the Patriot Prayer First Amendment Event Application

Date: August 17, 2017
Contact: Director of Communications and External Affairs, [phone]

We have heard and take very seriously the concerns expressed by the public and elected officials regarding the proposed August 26 Patriot Prayer First Amendment event at Crissy Field. Our highest priority is to ensure public safety, while honoring our obligation to uphold one of our nation’s most cherished Constitutional rights, the First Amendment right to freedom of speech.
 
We are guided by the Constitution, the law, longstanding court precedent, and National Park Service policy, which tells us we must be deliberative and not preemptive in our decisions related to First Amendment gatherings. Golden Gate National Recreation Area and the U.S. Park Police are closely coordinating with other federal, state and local agencies to ensure a robust plan is in place before we issue a final permit.
 
We want to thank everyone for expressing their heartfelt opinions and valid concerns. Anyone interested in expressing their opinion may do so by writing us at [e-mail]. We are reviewing all comments, but we are not able to respond to everyone due to the large volume we are receiving.
 
We will make a final determination on the permit within the next seven business days based on the thorough public safety review.  We will make a public announcement of our decision at that time.