U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres, who represents New York’s 15th district in Congress, announced the introduction of the “Our Parks Act” in a series of social media posts, highlighting efforts to ensure free access to National Parks on all federal holidays and responding to recent national events.
On December 12, 2025, Torres stated: “Trump wants to turn our National Parks into a political stage for his racism. I’m proud to have introduced the ‘Our Parks Act’ with @RepYvetteClarke to ensure Americans are granted free National Park access on ALL patriotic holidays, including MLK Day and Juneteenth.” The same day, he reiterated this initiative: “I’m proud to have introduced the ‘Our Parks Act’ with @RepYvetteClarke to ensure Americans are granted free National Park access on ALL federal holidays. MLK Day and Juneteenth are patriotic holidays, and our National Parks belong to all of us.”
Two days later, on December 14, 2025, Torres addressed an incident at an academic institution: “Devastated by the shooting at Brown University. My heart is with the victims, their families, and the entire Brown community.”
Torres has represented New York’s 15th district in Congress since replacing José E. Serrano in 2021. Born in The Bronx in 1988 and currently residing there at age 35, Torres is recognized for his legislative work on behalf of his constituents.
