Federal Judge Rules on Yosemite Ranger’s Termination

A federal judge determined on Friday that they lack the jurisdiction to reinstate a Yosemite park ranger who was dismissed last summer for displaying the Trans Pride flag during a holiday. Shannon “SJ” Joslin, who identifies as non-binary, filed a lawsuit against the Department of the Interior—specifically the National Park Service—earlier this year after being fired for unfurling the flag on the El Capitan rock formation in California.

In this lawsuit, Joslin sought to have their job reinstated and to prevent the government from initiating a criminal investigation.

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Joslin’s legal claim argues that the government enforced rules selectively, based on the message of the Pride flag. They assert that the termination was retaliatory and intended to express disapproval of a viewpoint. Following this, U.S. District Judge Jennifer Thurston noted that while the government maintains Joslin’s firing was unrelated to their speech, there’s a more fundamental reason: the court’s inability to establish the constitutionality of Joslin’s actions.

Thurston confirmed that the motion to dismiss from the government was accepted and Joslin’s preliminary injunction request was denied.

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After hoisting a sizable flag over Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan in May 2025, Joslin claimed in an Instagram post that the actions led to their termination for exercising First Amendment rights. Joslin remarked, “I was dismissed for ‘not exhibiting acceptable behavior’ as a park wildlife biologist,” further asserting that the flag display occurred outside of work hours and was unrelated to their duties.

They held the flag for approximately two hours before taking it down, observing that prior to their dismissal, “no one” had faced repercussions for displaying the flag at that location.

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Joslin expressed a desire for their rights and career to be restored, stating, “I want my rights and I want my career back.” In response to the ruling, the Interior Department commented, “We take the protection of park resources and visitor experiences very seriously and will not tolerate violations of laws or regulations that impact those resources or experiences.”

Yosemite National Park has been designated by Congress to showcase its natural beauty and cultural significance. Regardless of context, demonstrations without proper authorization can undermine visitor experiences and park preservation. Permits are generally required for demonstrations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors and protect park resources.