[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 111 (Monday, July 6, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E653-E654]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         INTRODUCTION OF THE NO FENCING AT LAFAYETTE SQUARE ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON

                      of the district of columbia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, July 6, 2026

  Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce the No Fencing at 
Lafayette Square Act, which would prohibit the installation of 
permanent fencing around Lafayette Square. This bill would help ensure 
that one of our nation's most important public spaces remains open and 
accessible to the public.
  According to press reports, the Trump administration plans to install 
permanent fencing around Lafayette Square, a federal park next to the 
White House.
  While I understand the importance of protecting the White House, 
which is 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.
  Lafayette Square has long welcomed First Amendment demonstrations, 
vigils and public gatherings. It serves as a place where Americans can 
peacefully assemble within sight of the White House and engage directly 
in a democratic tradition. The openness of Lafayette Square and our 
democracy is our strength, not a security weakness that needs to be 
fenced off. Permanent fencing at Lafayette Square would send the wrong 
message to the nation and the world by continuing to transform our 
democracy from one that is accessible and of the people to one that is 
exclusive and fearful of its own citizens.
  Fencing is an incredibly imprecise security tool. It is more likely 
to keep out tourists, residents, students, and peaceful demonstrators 
than those determined to do harm. In many

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respects, it is another form of security theater, where it makes a 
place look secure while masking the need for more effective and modern 
security measures.
  Furthermore, Lafayette Square is in a mixed-use neighborhood. The 
park is used every day by D.C. residents and visitors from across the 
country and around the world.
  The distance between government and the people has grown, with trust 
in government at an all-time low. We should not increase that distance 
by placing intimidating barriers between public servants and the people 
they serve, especially when such barriers are not necessary.
  Security is not only about reducing risk. It is also about 
safeguarding the freedoms and values that anchor our country, not only 
for ourselves but for future generations. Public property should be 
open to the public. We should not leave citizens peering at their 
democracy from behind permanent fences.
  I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

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