An upside-down American flag was displayed on El Capitan at Yosemite National Park on Saturday, following the dismissal of around 1,000 National Park Service employees by the Trump administration.
The flag was draped over the iconic 3,000-foot granite monolith, one of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks. Photographer Brittany Colt captured the striking moment as the flag was unfurled over the towering cliff face.
The recent layoffs sparked concern among Yosemite employees, who fear the staff cuts could negatively impact visitor experiences and the well-being of the park’s wildlife. The Sierra Nevada-based park, known for its natural beauty, relies heavily on staff to maintain trails, clean facilities, and educate guests.
The Trump administration’s decision to terminate about 1,000 newly hired National Park Service workers was part of a broader initiative to reduce government spending. These employees were responsible for essential tasks like park maintenance, visitor education, and wildlife management.
In response to public backlash, the administration has announced plans to reinstate at least 50 positions across the National Park System. A recent memo also revealed that the Park Service intends to hire more seasonal workers than usual to help bridge the staffing gap. The agency employs roughly 20,000 people nationwide, and at least a dozen of those laid off were stationed at Yosemite.
The upside-down flag display—recognized as a symbol of “dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property,” according to The American Legion’s Flag Code—sparked speculation about its intent. It remains unclear whether park employees or visitors were responsible for hanging the flag.
This time of year draws hundreds of visitors to Yosemite Valley, particularly to witness the natural spectacle of Horsetail Fall on El Capitan, which glows in the evening sunlight during late February, creating a fire-like effect.