A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a former Yosemite National Park ranger who was fired after hanging a giant transgender pride flag on El Capitan. U.S. District Judge Jennifer Thurston ruled that Shannon “SJ” Joslin, a nonbinary biologist, must follow the process outlined in the Civil Service Reform Act. Since Joslin was a probationary employee at the time of their termination in August 2025, they must file a complaint with the Office of Special Counsel, which they have done. The Office denied Joslin’s request to pause their termination while investigating potential legal violations, with a final determination expected in August 2026.
Joslin hung the 66-foot-wide flag on May 20, 2025, during their day off. They voluntarily removed it after about two hours, stating the act was meant to convey that “we’re all safe in national parks.” The National Park Service cited the incident in Joslin’s termination letter, accusing them of “failing to demonstrate acceptable conduct” and violating park rules by demonstrating outside designated protest areas without a permit. Yosemite, like many parks, has designated “First Amendment areas” where small groups can protest without permits.
Joslin’s lawsuit alleged constitutional violations, including free speech infringement. The National Park Service defended its actions, emphasizing adherence to park regulations. The case now proceeds through the Office of Special Counsel’s administrative process.