Lawsuit Filed by Former Yosemite Ranger Over Termination for Flying Transgender Pride Flag

Shannon "S.J." Joslin, a non-binary former National Park Service (NPS) ranger, has filed a lawsuit against multiple federal agencies after being terminated for unfurling a transgender pride flag from El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. The incident occurred in May 2025 during a protest against the Trump administration's policies on transgender rights. Joslin claims their firing was a violation of their First Amendment rights.

The IndependentThe Hill

The political backdrop of Joslin's actions includes a series of directives from the Trump administration that targeted LGBTQ+ rights, including the enforcement of a trans bathroom ban on federal properties. In February 2025, the NPS removed references to transgender individuals from the Stonewall National Monument's website, further illustrating the administration's stance. The removal of the pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument in early February 2026, following a directive limiting flags on NPS sites, sparked outrage and protests from the LGBTQ+ community.

Ark Valley VoiceThe Independent

Joslin, 36, is a bat biologist with a Ph.D. who has been vocal about their motivations for the flag display, citing emotional distress over the Trump administration's actions against trans rights. The lawsuit names the NPS, the U.S. Department of the Interior, the Department of Justice, and several high-ranking officials, including Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and NPS acting director Jessica Bowron, as defendants.

The Independent

In response to the lawsuit, an NPS spokesperson stated, “We do not comment on the specifics of personnel actions. However, we want to emphasize that we take the protection of the park’s resources and the experience of our visitors very seriously.” The spokesperson reiterated that demonstrations without permits outside designated areas detract from visitor experiences and park protection.

The Hill

The removal of the pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument and Joslin's termination have drawn significant criticism. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed outrage, stating, “No act of erasure will ever change or silence that history.” Additionally, Lambda Legal has filed a lawsuit on behalf of several organizations against the NPS for the flag's removal, arguing that it unlawfully targeted the LGBTQ+ community.

Ark Valley VoiceThe Independent

Joslin's lawsuit claims that the NPS has not previously enforced regulations against similar demonstrations, raising questions about the selective enforcement of policies. The timing of a new ban on flying large flags in Yosemite, announced shortly after Joslin's protest, is also contested as potentially retaliatory.

The Independent

• “This sends a clear message: Hanging a trans flag in the park results in firing and criminal investigation,” — Shannon "S.J." Joslin, Former NPS Ranger

The Hill

• “Dr. Joslin exercised their First Amendment rights and is being punished to send a clear message—speech the administration doesn’t like will not be tolerated. Dr. Joslin was illegally fired and should be reinstated immediately.” — Joanna Citron Day, Joslin’s Attorney

The Hill

The lawsuit seeks reinstatement of Joslin's position, an injunction against further criminal investigations, and damages of at least $1,000. The case highlights ongoing tensions between federal policies and LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in national parks, and may set a precedent for future cases involving free speech and expression in federal spaces.

The Independent