Activists have hung a trans flag in Yosemite National Park, California, in an act of protest and “a celebration of trans belonging in nature, in community, and everywhere”.

Trans and queer people and allies revealed a 16-by-10 metre Trans Pride Flag on El Capitan, a summit in the national park. It also marks the largest ever Trans Pride Flag ever hung in a national park.

Pattie Gonia, who has been a fierce advocate for environmentalism and sustainability, affirmed that trans people have always belonged in nature. “We flew the Trans Pride flag in Yosemite to make a statement: Trans people are natural and Trans people are loved,” she said via a press release.

“Let this flag fly higher than hate. We are done being polite about trans people’s existence. Call it a protest, call it a celebration — either way, it’s giving elevation to liberation.”

In a video posted to their Instagram, Gonia noted that trans species exist in nature, despite “the Trump administration and transphobes would love to have you believe that being trans is unnatural”.

“But species that can transition sexes can be found on every continent, and in every ocean on planet earth.”

SJ Joslin, a lead organizer, added: “Raising this flag in the heart of El Capitan is a celebration of our community standing in solidarity with each other and all targeted groups.

“Trans existence is not up for debate. We are social workers, public servants, parents, and neighbors. Being trans is a natural, beautiful part of human and biological diversity. We can only make progress when we embrace diversity, not erase it.”

“Everyone deserves respect,” climber and fellow ally Nate Vince added in the press release. “Trans people are my friends. I step up when my friends need help, and we all need to step up right now for trans people.”

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