A Yosemite National Park ranger was terminated after draping a large transgender pride flag across El Capitan in May. The action took place during off-duty hours but prompted swift administrative response from the National Park Service. Shannon “SJ” Joslin, 35, who identifies as non-binary and serves as a wildlife biologist, described the hanging as a personal expression of identity—not a work-related activity.
Joslin claims the flag was displayed on personal time and removed voluntarily after two hours, asserting that similar flag displays had occurred previously without consequence. However, park officials cited the incident as a violation of conduct standards and fired Joslin shortly before the end of their two-year probationary period.
In response to the incident, Yosemite officials enacted a new regulation the day following the display. The newly signed rule prohibits hanging banners, flags, or signs larger than 15 square feet in most wilderness areas, a rule that now applies to roughly 94% of the park’s territory.
The National Park Service has made it clear that both internal and external parties involved may face disciplinary measures. Alongside Joslin’s dismissal, other employees connected to the incident have been placed on administrative leave. Meanwhile, the Justice Department is reportedly evaluating potential criminal charges against visitors linked to unauthorized protest activity.
Discussion about this post