Former Yosemite Employee Sues National Park Service Over Firing
A former employee of Yosemite National Park has initiated a lawsuit against the National Park Service (NPS) after being terminated for displaying a transgender pride flag on a rock formation at El Capitan, California.
Shannon “SJ” Joslyn, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, reported that they were let go in August after hanging a large flag measuring 55 by 35 feet at the famous site. Joslyn contended that the flag was flown during their off-duty hours and had no relation to their job responsibilities.
“I was dismissed by the Interim Deputy Superintendent for allegedly ‘not exhibiting acceptable behavior’ as a wildlife biologist,” Joslyn shared via an Instagram post. “The flag-raising was done outside of work hours and was unrelated to my role.”
On Monday, Joslyn filed a formal lawsuit against the NPS, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Department of Justice, asserting that the firing was a violation of the First Amendment and an infringement on the rights of the transgender community. The complaint states that the actions taken against Joslyn were driven by the government’s disagreement with their expression of support for the trans community, to which they belong. Even if displaying the flag violated NPS regulations, enforcing those rules in a way that discriminates based on viewpoint would be a First Amendment violation.
Furthermore, Joslyn mentioned that the NPS is treating the incident as a “criminal matter,” despite the fact that no harm has come from the demonstration. Joslyn seeks reinstatement at the NPS, claiming the dismissal has caused them “emotional distress” and worsened existing health issues.
“My life has been completely disrupted by an administration that aims to undermine my constitutional rights and those of others who think differently,” Joslyn remarked. “I refuse to accept the failures of American democracy. This lawsuit is my means of advocating for all federal, transgender, and human rights.”
The NPS and the Department of the Interior have not commented specifically on the lawsuit but reiterated their commitment to the park’s preservation, stating that unauthorized demonstrations could detract from the visitor experience and compromise the park’s protection.
“Yosemite National Park’s purpose, as designated by Congress, is to showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural attributes,” the statement read. “Permits are necessary for various demonstrations to ensure the protection of visitors and park resources.”
In light of the initial demonstration, the then-acting superintendent had established a directive prohibiting the display of any “banners, flags, or signs exceeding 15 square feet” without prior permission.
