Yosemite ranger and biologist fired over off duty flag on El Capitan

A Yosemite National Park ranger and wildlife biologist said they were fired last week for helping hang a transgender pride flag on El Capitan in May, an act they describe as a private, off‑duty display meant to celebrate inclusivity. Park officials confirmed that administrative action is being pursued against several employees and that criminal investigations could be pursued for some visitors who demonstrably violated demonstrations rules. The case highlights ongoing questions about free expression, park policy changes, and how federal agencies handle demonstrations at iconic natural landmarks.

Shannon SJ Joslin, 35, who uses they/them pronouns and identifies as nonbinary, said they were terminated August 12 from a role described as their “dream job.” They maintain the flag display occurred off work time and had no relation to their official duties as a wildlife biologist studying bats. Joslin described the act as a private celebration of identity and stated that the flag was hung for about two hours before removal. They said the firing comes despite a long history of flag displays on El Capitan and noted that no one had previously faced discipline for similar demonstrations.