News Summary
In Orlando, three individuals were arrested during a protest against the removal of a rainbow crosswalk that memorialized victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting. Organized to oppose the state’s decision, the ‘Chalk For Pride’ event attracted demonstrators who expressed their outrage over the removal of the memorial. Local leaders and community advocates criticized the action as a betrayal, while ongoing tensions highlight the broader issue of freedom of expression in public art.
Orlando, FL – The Florida Highway Patrol arrested three individuals during a protest at the former Pulse nightclub on August 31, 2025, as tensions rise over the removal of the rainbow crosswalk that served as a memorial for victims of the 2016 mass shooting. The protest, organized in response to the removal of “Pride crosswalks,” attracted demonstrators at South Orange Avenue and West Esther Street for the “Chalk For Pride” event, which began at 6 p.m.
The three individuals arrested during the protest are identified as Zane Aparicio, 39, Mary Jane East, 25, and Donavon Short, 26. They face charges of interfering with a traffic control device valued at $1,000 or more, according to arrest reports. This incident is part of a growing movement against state regulations perceived to threaten freedom of expression.
Protesters had been gathering every day for over a week to express their discontent following the removal of the rainbow crosswalk, which was painted over by state authorities. Prior to the protest, on August 24, Orestes Sebastian Suarez, 29, was arrested for allegedly defacing a traffic device after he colored the bottom of his shoe with chalk and crossed the road, leaving footprints on the surface. Suarez faced charges of defacing a traffic device but was released after a judge ruled there was no probable cause for his arrest.
The rainbow crosswalk was originally installed in 2017 as a tribute to the 49 lives lost in the 2016 mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub. Its removal has been met with backlash from local officials, LGBTQ advocates, and community members who see it as a significant loss of a memorial. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer criticized the state’s action as a “cruel political act” and expressed concern over the hasty removal of a memorial that held deep meaning for many.
The decision to remove the crosswalk aligns with a broader state campaign against artistic displays on public roadways. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis claimed the move was aimed at reducing distractions on the road, rather than targeting the content of the artwork. As part of this push, new signs have been placed at the crosswalk warning, “DEFACING SIDEWALK PROHIBITED.”
This controversy has sparked widespread condemnation from various segments of the community. State Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith described the removal as a “disgusting act of betrayal” and called it a “bigoted decision by the state.” Survivors of the Pulse shooting and their supporters expressed outrage, highlighting that the crosswalk was a critical visual reminder of the tragic events that occurred and a symbol of solidarity for the LGBTQ community.
A permanent memorial for the Pulse shooting victims is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with funding from the State of Florida. In the wake of the crosswalk’s removal, many residents have responded by coloring the area with chalk, demonstrating solidarity and a commitment to keeping the memory of the victims alive.
Local leaders anticipate ongoing challenges in maintaining public displays of LGBTQ pride in the face of state regulations. They have indicated that legal actions may be pursued, similar to efforts by other communities fighting against similar actions to remove rainbow crosswalks.
As this situation continues to unfold, it remains clear that the debate over freedom of expression, public art, and the commemoration of tragic events is far from settled in Orlando.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Florida Cities Resist Removal of Rainbow Crosswalks
Man Arrested for Leaving Chalky Footprints at Pulse Site
Florida Removes Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial for Pulse Victims
Protests Erupt in Orlando Over Rainbow Crosswalk Removal
Dispute Over Rainbow Crosswalk at Pulse Memorial Sparks Protests
Removal of Rainbow Crosswalk Sparks Outrage in Orlando
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- BBC News
- CNN
- Orlando Sentinel
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Pulse nightclub shooting
- Google Search: Orlando Pulse nightclub rainbow crosswalk
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
