An inverted American flag was displayed atop Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan rock formation on February 23, catching visitors’ attention and sparking questions about its meaning. This deliberate act was a protest by National Park Service employees against job cuts under the Trump administration, using the upside-down flag as a symbol of “dire distress.”

The U.S. Flag Code states that an upside-down flag signals extreme danger to life or property, making this a powerful message about the National Park Service’s current struggles. Employees sought to highlight the serious impact of staffing reductions on park operations and visitor safety.

The Trump administration’s decision to cut 1,000 National Park Service jobs raised alarm among park rangers, maintenance workers, and environmental specialists. They worry that reduced staffing will lead to declining park conditions, unsafe environments, and a diminished visitor experience. Gavin Carpenter, a Yosemite maintenance mechanic, admitted to supplying the flag for the protest, emphasizing the importance of protecting these public lands.

Photographer Brittany Colt captured and shared the image online, where it quickly resonated with many. She expressed frustration over the cuts, noting that essential services like Search and Rescue and park maintenance were jeopardized, threatening both park upkeep and visitor safety.

In response to public backlash, the Trump administration announced plans to restore 50 positions and hire nearly 3,000 seasonal workers. While this offers some relief, many employees remain concerned that these measures won’t solve the deeper issues related to funding and long-term park preservation.