Flag Protest at Yosemite Over National Park Job Cuts

An upside-down American flag was displayed on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, signaling distress following the Trump administration's firing of about 1,000 National Park Service employees, including 11 from Yosemite. This action was a protest against the reduction of the federal workforce, which protesters claim threatens public lands and the visitor experience. The firing, part of a government downsizing effort, led to significant concerns about wildlife welfare and operational capacity at national parks. In response to public outcry, the administration plans to restore 50 jobs and hire more seasonal workers. The protest, coinciding with the popular firefall event, aimed to raise awareness without disrupting visitors' experiences. It remains unclear if the flag was displayed by visitors or former park employees.