Federal judge rules against reinstatement of fired Yosemite ranger

A federal judge ruled on June 13, 2026, that she lacks the authority to reinstate Shannon "SJ" Joslin, a former Yosemite park ranger who was fired after flying a trans pride flag on their day off. Joslin, who identifies as nonbinary, filed a lawsuit against the Department of the Interior earlier this year, claiming that their dismissal was retaliatory and selective based on the message of the pride flag. U.S. District Judge Jennifer Thurston stated that the court does not have the authority to determine if Joslin's firing was unconstitutional or illegal, leading to the dismissal of Joslin's motion for a preliminary injunction. The Interior Department emphasized the importance of adhering to park regulations regarding demonstrations. Joslin expressed a desire to regain their rights and career following the ruling.