On February 23, visitors to Yosemite National Park noticed an inverted American flag flying atop the iconic El Capitan rock formation. This striking image was a deliberate protest by National Park Service (NPS) employees against job cuts under the Trump administration.

Flying the flag upside down is a recognized signal of “dire distress” according to the U.S. Flag Code. By displaying it this way, NPS workers aimed to highlight the severe challenges facing the parks due to staffing reductions.

The Trump administration’s decision to cut 1,000 NPS jobs sparked concern among park rangers, maintenance workers, and environmental specialists. Employees fear that fewer staff will lead to declining park conditions and safety risks for visitors.

Gavin Carpenter, a maintenance mechanic at Yosemite, admitted he provided the flag for the protest. He stressed the importance of protecting national parks and ensuring they remain safe and well-maintained.

Photographer Brittany Colt captured and shared the image online, where it resonated widely. She expressed frustration over the job cuts, especially since vital services like Search and Rescue and park maintenance were at risk.

Public backlash over the cuts prompted the Trump administration to announce plans to restore 50 full-time positions and hire nearly 3,000 seasonal workers. These moves were intended to provide some immediate relief to the parks.

Despite these efforts, many NPS employees remain worried that the actions fall short of addressing deeper funding problems and long-term park preservation challenges.

The inverted flag atop El Capitan stands as a powerful symbol of distress within the National Park Service, reflecting the dedication of employees advocating for America’s treasured public lands and their future.