Ranger fired for hanging trans pride flag in Yosemite park

In May 2025, in Yosemite National Park, located in California, Shannon 'SJ' Joslin, a ranger and wildlife biologist, was terminated from their position after hanging a transgender pride flag on the iconic rock formation El Capitan. This act lasted about two hours, was done in Joslin's free time as a private citizen, and intended to celebrate queer identity while also protesting against policies perceived as discriminatory towards transgender people. Joslin’s action occurred just weeks before Pride Month, aiming to signal support for the LGBTQ+ community amid a challenging political climate. Following this event, the National Park Service reported complaints regarding unauthorized demonstrations at El Capitan, which included the pride flag display. The agency is pursuing administrative and potentially criminal actions against various employees and visitors related to these demonstrations, highlighting a shift in policies regarding protests in national parks under the Trump administration. Regulations were updated shortly after the flag was hung, reiterating that large banners and demonstrations typically require permits, a measure that critics argue intimidates federal workers expressing their identities. The National Park Service claimed to prioritize the visitor experience and the protection of park resources while stating that signs, flags, and banners outside designated First Amendment areas detracted from both. This crackdown was contextualized by previous incidents of flag displays at El Capitan, which had received little to no repercussions in the past. Joslin criticized the termination as a move to suppress federal workers who express identities that conflict with the administration's policies, asserting that such actions send a message of exclusion rather than acceptance within public lands. Joslin, who worked nearly five years with the National Park Service, described their ranger position as a 'dream job' that allowed them to contribute positively to community acceptance and diversity. Their firing has sparked discussions on free speech rights for federal employees, especially as they relate to personal identities and advocacy in national parks. Many advocates, fellow park rangers, and community members rallied behind Joslin, emphasizing the significance of representation and the right to express support for marginalized identities in public spaces.