Former National Park Service Ranger Sues Federal Agencies Over Termination for Hanging Transgender Pride Flag in Yosemite National Park
Dr. Shannon “SJ” Joslin, a former National Park Service (NPS) ranger, filed a lawsuit against multiple federal agencies on Monday, claiming that their termination violated their First Amendment rights. Joslin was fired last year for hanging a transgender pride flag in Yosemite National Park, sparking a debate on the freedom of expression in the workplace.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, names the Department of the Interior, the National Park Service, and the Yosemite National Park Superintendent as defendants. Joslin, who identifies as transgender, argues that their termination was a direct result of their decision to hang the transgender pride flag in their office at Yosemite National Park.
According to the lawsuit, Joslin had been working as a ranger at Yosemite National Park for over a decade and had received numerous accolades for their work. However, in June 2019, Joslin was informed that their employment was being terminated due to “conduct unbecoming of a federal employee.” This came as a shock to Joslin, who had never received any disciplinary action during their time at the park.
The termination came after Joslin hung a transgender pride flag in their office, which was visible to the public. Joslin had been inspired to do so after seeing the progress made by the LGBTQ+ community in recent years and wanted to show their support and pride for their identity. However, this act was deemed inappropriate by their superiors, who claimed that it went against the NPS uniform policy.
In the lawsuit, Joslin argues that their termination was a violation of their First Amendment rights, which protect the freedom of expression. They claim that the NPS uniform policy is overly broad and vague, and that their termination was a direct result of their gender identity and expression.
The lawsuit also highlights the discrimination and harassment that Joslin faced during their time at Yosemite National Park. Despite being a dedicated and hardworking employee, they were subjected to derogatory comments and unequal treatment due to their gender identity. Joslin claims that their termination was the final act of discrimination and retaliation by the NPS.
The case has sparked a debate on the freedom of expression in the workplace and the protection of LGBTQ+ rights. Many have come out in support of Joslin, arguing that their termination was unjust and a violation of their rights. Organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) have also expressed their support for Joslin and their fight for justice.
In a statement, Joslin said, “I never thought that my pride and support for the LGBTQ+ community would cost me my job. I was proud to serve as a ranger at Yosemite National Park and to represent the NPS, but I could not stay silent and hide my identity. I hope that this lawsuit will bring about change and protect the rights of all federal employees, regardless of their gender identity or expression.”
The NPS has yet to comment on the lawsuit, but the Department of the Interior released a statement saying, “We are aware of the lawsuit and will review it accordingly. We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.”
As the case moves forward, it is important to recognize the significance of this lawsuit and the impact it could have on the protection of LGBTQ+ rights in the workplace. Joslin’s courage to stand up for their rights and fight against discrimination and injustice should be commended. Let us hope that this lawsuit will bring about positive change and ensure that no one else has to face discrimination and retaliation for expressing their identity.
