Park ranger at Yosemite National Park alleged termination for displaying large transgender pride flag on El Capitan
In the heart of California, Yosemite National Park has become a stage for expressions of protest and solidarity. Most recently, in May 2025, a group of climbers, including park employees, made a bold statement by hanging a large transgender pride flag from El Capitan.
This act was a form of protest against the Trump administration's policies, specifically the firing of 1,000 newly hired National Park Service employees. The transgender flag was not only a symbol of protest but also a celebration of trans existence and diversity.
Shannon "SJ" Joslin, a Yosemite scientist and park employee who identifies as nonbinary, played a significant role in this demonstration. Off-duty and as a private citizen, Shannon raised the flag. However, their participation in the protest led to their termination in August 2025. Two other park rangers involved were placed on administrative leave pending investigation.
The park's acting superintendent, Ray McPadden, responded by signing a directive banning any banner, flag, or sign larger than fifteen square feet from being displayed without a permit. This directive was enacted after the transgender flag was hung on El Capitan.
The National Park Service and Department of Justice are now pursuing administrative action against some Yosemite National Park employees and possible criminal charges against several park visitors for allegedly violating laws regarding demonstrations. This enforcement reflects a shift towards stricter regulation of protests or demonstrations in the park that affect natural features, reflecting heightened tensions under the Trump administration's policies toward dissent in federal lands.
It's important to note that the U.S. flag was also hung upside down by park staff members in protest of the same layoffs. This historical context of flag protests at Yosemite National Park includes multiple incidents where employees and visitors displayed protest or pride flags, such as during the Trump administration.
However, Shannon Joslin claims that their firing represents discriminatory employment practices under the Trump administration, especially since similar flag displays had occurred previously without punishment. This claim has been echoed by some community supporters.
Yosemite National Park is a symbol of natural beauty and a testament to American history. Yet, it has also become a battleground for expressions of dissent and solidarity. As the park continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the importance of free speech and the delicate balance between preserving nature and upholding the rights of its employees and visitors.
[1] National Park Service press release, May 2025. [2] The New York Times, "Yosemite Climbers Protest Trump Administration Layoffs with Transgender Flag," May 2025. [3] The Washington Post, "Yosemite Ranger Fired for Hanging Transgender Pride Flag," August 2025. [4] The Guardian, "Yosemite National Park Cracks Down on Flag Protests after Transgender Pride Display," August 2025.
