Summary
A ranger at Yosemite National Park was fired after hanging a large transgender pride flag from El Capitan. The incident led to a crackdown on protests, with both employees and visitors facing possible charges for violating park regulations. The actions are part of broader restrictions on demonstrations during the Trump administration.
Key Facts
- A ranger named Shannon âSJâ Joslin hung a 66-foot wide transgender pride flag on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.
- Joslin was fired for failing to demonstrate acceptable conduct as a park employee.
- The National Park Service is working with the Justice Department to address violations of demonstration restrictions in the park.
- New rules were signed prohibiting large banners, flags, or signs in park wilderness areas.
- Restrictions are claimed to protect park resources and visitor experiences.
- Flags had been flown from El Capitan before without issues, according to a former federal attorney.
- Policy changes during the Trump administration have impacted definitions of sex and gender identity and restricted transgender rights.
- Other park employees involved are under investigation, but there are no pending legal cases against them yet.
