LGBTQ activists scaled Yosemite National Park’s iconic El Capitan rock formation on Tuesday to unfurl a massive 55-by-35-foot transgender flag without park authorization. The protest, led by drag performer and MTV’s RuPaul’s Drag Race figure Pattie Gonia, aimed to make a political statement against President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies on gender identity.
The flag was displayed 1,500 feet above ground between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. before park officials intervened. By noon, the unauthorized display was ordered removed. The National Park Service has launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing that actions which undermine the integrity of national parks will not be tolerated.
Organizers of the event, a coalition known as “Trans Is Natural,” claimed the demonstration was a protest and celebration. “Trans people are natural and trans people are loved,” said Gonia. Another organizer described the act as “reclaiming space in the heart of Yosemite,” calling it both a message of solidarity and defiance.
Park authorities made clear that the demonstration violated regulations protecting public lands from unauthorized alterations or displays. The large-scale political stunt has drawn criticism for politicizing a national park and using federally protected landmarks as platforms for activism.
One of the climbers involved, Nate Vince, previously raised an upside-down American flag at Yosemite, also in protest of the Trump administration. He claimed these acts are necessary to “step up” for transgender individuals.
Critics argue the demonstration disrespects the sanctity of national parks and promotes radical agendas using taxpayer-funded spaces. The event highlights an ongoing trend of progressive activists pushing political displays into protected public environments with little regard for the legal or cultural implications.
The stunt has raised concerns among conservationists and park advocates, who argue that using protected natural landmarks for political demonstrations sets a dangerous precedent. Yosemite National Park, like all national parks, is intended to be a space of natural preservation and public unity, not a battleground for divisive political statements. Critics warn that allowing such displays, even temporarily, could lead to increased tensions and open the door for further unauthorized demonstrations that compromise the park’s mission and visitor experience.
