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National Trust Launches Historic Preservation Defense Fund

In a significant move for the preservation of America's storied past, Brent Leggs, the new President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, has unveiled the Historic Preservation Defense Fund. This ambitious $10 million initiative aims to protect the nation’s cherished landmarks from rising threats arising from legislative actions in Washington. The announcement was made during the keynote address at the inaugural 2026 National Preservation Summit, a gathering of over 500 leaders in preservation, business, and policy at the Washington National Cathedral.

The Urgency of Preservation

Leggs stressed the critical and urgent need for this fund, stating, "This is an urgent, pivotal moment for historic preservation. Our nation's iconic, historic buildings and places, and with them the foundational stories of our country, are now under a generational threat." He emphasized that maintaining America’s tangible heritage is crucial for future generations, and addressing the current and emerging threats will require a united front among preservationists nationwide.

The Historic Preservation Defense Fund aims to provide essential resources for legal defense, public advocacy, and community mobilization when landmark sites and the regulations protecting them face challenges. According to Leggs, the funds raised through this initiative will serve as the cornerstone for these concerted efforts and enable a cohesive strategy among preservation organizations, historians, legal experts, and engaged citizens.

Protecting National Treasures

From historic sites like the Statue of Liberty to the breathtaking landscapes of the Grand Canyon, America’s historical sites are at risk. The implications of federal policies and local actions could lead to irreversible changes to these sites, calling for a collective approach from various stakeholders to safeguard them. The Defense Fund is poised to arm the preservation movement with the necessary tools to confront these challenges head-on.

The National Trust's 2026 National Preservation Summit not only marks a pivotal moment in historic preservation but also reflects the diverse voices across the movement. The event featured discussions on important topics like Section 106 regulations, economic development related to historic sites, and community revitalization strategies.

A Coalition for Change

Moreover, the Summit offered a platform for thought leaders and academics, such as Harvard scholar Sarah Lewis and civil rights advocate Sherrilyn Ifill, to share insights into the connections between history, architecture, social justice, and community engagement. U.S. Senator Bill Frist and AIA President-elect Yiselle Santos Rivera were also on hand to discuss forging new paths for historic preservation in today’s socio-political climate.

Generous support from organizations like the 1772 Foundation and the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has made this Summit possible, reflecting a collective commitment to ensuring the future of historic preservation. Brent Leggs reiterated that the preservation movement must mobilize quickly and effectively to address and adapt to threats that could dismantle decades of progress.

Moving Forward

As communities gather their resources and collective will, the Historic Preservation Defense Fund stands as a beacon of hope for safeguarding America's diverse heritage. By investing in this initiative, supporters can enable the National Trust for Historic Preservation to uphold its mission of advocating for the invaluable stories that historic places tell, ensuring that they remain protected for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

This moment serves as a call to action for all who cherish America's history, urging them to engage vigorously in the preservation of our country's irreplaceable cultural assets. The future of historic preservation relies not just on funding but on a robust movement that is driven by shared values and commitment to the past, present, and future.

Conclusion

With the launch of the Historic Preservation Defense Fund, the National Trust for Historic Preservation takes a bold step towards advocating for the nation's enduring stories and historic places, reaffirming its commitment to unity, action, and sustainable preservation practices that honor America's rich heritage. As threats loom large, this newly established fund will be instrumental in rallying efforts to protect what makes America uniquely historical and culturally significant.