Overview

• Acting Deputy Superintendent Danika Globokar terminated Shannon “SJ” Joslin on Aug. 12 for “failing to demonstrate acceptable conduct” tied to a May flag display, which Joslin says occurred off duty as a private citizen.
• Joslin and other climbers unfurled a large transgender pride flag on El Capitan on May 20, and the display remained for roughly two hours before it was removed.
• The next day, Yosemite updated its Superintendent’s Compendium—dated May 20 but signed May 21—to prohibit banners, flags or signs larger than 15 square feet on natural or cultural features, a restriction that applies across most wilderness areas.
• The National Park Service says it is pursuing administrative action against multiple employees, and NPS spokesperson Rachel Pawlitz says the Justice Department is evaluating potential criminal charges for visitors; Joslin says two other rangers are under investigation or on leave.
• Hired under Schedule A with a two-year probation set to end in September, Joslin faces fewer procedural protections and has consulted Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility about potential legal challenges.