Yosemite ranger SJ Joslin remains defiant after being fired over Trans Flag display
– 2 min read
In a move that has sparked outrage across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, Yosemite National Park has dismissed wildlife biologist and park ranger Shannon “SJ” Joslin after they helped display a large trans pride flag on El Capitan, one of the park’s most iconic rock formations. Joslin, who uses they/them pronouns, described the act as a celebration of trans identity and inclusion in nature - not a protest.
The 55-by-35-foot flag was hung on 20 May 2025 by Joslin and a group of trans climbers and allies, including environmental activist Pattie Gonia. The display lasted for two hours and did not obstruct any climbing routes. Joslin was off-duty and out of uniform at the time.
Despite the peaceful nature of the event, Joslin was terminated on 12 August by Acting Deputy Superintendent Danika Globokar, who cited “failure to demonstrate acceptable conduct” during Joslin’s probationary period. The dismissal letter referenced a violation of National Park Service (NPS) regulations concerning demonstrations outside designated areas, although Joslin maintains that the flag hanging was not a demonstration but a personal expression of identity.
Notably, the park’s Superintendent’s Compendium - which outlines specific rules for Yosemite - was updated the day after the flag display to prohibit banners larger than 15 square feet on natural features. This rule was not in effect at the time of the flag hanging.
Joslin, who has led bat research at Yosemite and holds a PhD in bioinformatics, expressed deep disappointment over the firing. “I made career choices to position myself in Yosemite National Park because this is the place that I love the most,” they told NBC News. “We don’t take our positions in the park service to make money. We take it because we love the places that we work”.
The NPS has declined to comment on the specifics of Joslin’s case but confirmed that administrative actions are being pursued against multiple employees. Joslin is now considering legal action, potentially filing a wrongful termination suit with support from Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER).
The incident has raised broader questions about free speech, inclusion, and the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in federal institutions. Joslin’s supporters argue that the firing reflects a targeted response under the current administration, which has enacted policies seen by many as hostile to trans rights.
Joslin remains defiant. “My firing isn’t just about one ranger,” they said. “It’s about whether everyone has the right to speak freely in the United States”.
