News Summary
The Florida Department of Transportation has begun removing rainbow crosswalks and Black history murals, igniting protests across the state. Activists are rallying against the policy, which prohibits non-uniform traffic control devices. The removal of a prominent rainbow crosswalk in Orlando, created as a memorial for Pulse nightclub shooting victims, has particularly drawn anger. Law enforcement has increased surveillance in the area following protests. Local officials are considering legal action to challenge the FDOT’s removal guidelines, citing the removal’s impact on community expression and safety.
Orlando, Florida – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has initiated the removal of rainbow crosswalks, Black history murals, and other artistic installations in a move that has ignited widespread outrage and protests across the state. The new guidelines established by FDOT prohibit the presence of “non-uniform traffic control devices” on both state and local roads, leading to the erasure of these public safety artworks.
Among the most notable removals is a rainbow crosswalk in Orlando, which served as a memorial for the 49 victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting in 2016. This crosswalk was painted over last month, prompting residents to gather in protest. Activists have been attempting to repaint the crosswalk using sidewalk chalk, continuing their efforts despite persistent rain washing away their work. In response to the grassroots protests, Orlando police have increased patrols around the area, ensuring 24/7 surveillance.
Authorities arrested four protesters for allegedly “defacing” the crosswalk with chalk, but none faced formal charges and they were released on their own recognizance. The removal policy has sparked similar protests in various Florida cities, including Key West, Miami Beach, and St. Petersburg, where the “Black History Matters” mural was also painted over, leading to the arrest of two pastors who attempted to prevent its removal.
The FDOT’s enforcement actions come with warnings to local governments, threatening funding cuts if they do not comply with the directive to cover or remove rainbow crosswalks and street art. Most cities were given deadlines in early September to comply with the regulations, though Delray Beach has received an extension to contest the removal of its rainbow street mural.
This policy update aligns with a broader initiative from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, which advocates for streets to remain free of political messages or artwork. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has openly supported these changes, arguing that individuals do not have a First Amendment right to use public property for political expression.
In contrast, supporters of LGBTQ rights and advocates for the artwork contend that the removal contradicts safety studies which have indicated that colorful crosswalks can enhance pedestrian safety. A study conducted in April 2022 found significant reductions in pedestrian accidents in locations with vibrant asphalt art projects.
In response to the policy changes, local officials in several cities are planning legal action against the state, asserting that the lack of data supporting the removal infringes upon their local governance rights. Critics, including former Democratic Governor Charlie Crist, view the move as an effort to silence community voices and suppress freedom of expression.
Nadine Smith, a representative from Equality Florida, described the endeavor to eliminate pride street art as a misuse of governmental authority, highlighting the resolve among the public to respond with acts of defiance. The crackdown on street art also extends to other initiatives, including murals that support police and various student art projects linked to local safety programs.
Officials have raised concerns about the legality of the enforcement, noting that guidance on street art was not part of the original legislation that governed traffic control devices. The Transportation Department stated that the policy had been communicated to local governments several months prior and that the update reflects a long-standing law aimed at maintaining road safety and uniformity in traffic control measures.
As the debate over these removals continues, cities throughout Florida are preparing for ongoing protests and discussions regarding the significance of public art and its role within community identity and safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Protest Erupts Over Removal of Rainbow Crosswalk in Orlando
Florida Cities Resist Removal of Rainbow Crosswalks
Man Arrested for Leaving Chalky Footprints at Pulse Site
Florida Removes Rainbow Crosswalk Memorial for Pulse Victims
Removal of Rainbow Crosswalk Sparks Outrage in Orlando
Additional Resources
- NBC News: Arrests, Protests Over Sidewalk Chalk
- Wikipedia: Rainbow Crosswalk
- The Guardian: Florida Crosswalks
- Google Search: Florida Rainbow Crosswalk
- Slate: Ron DeSantis and Florida Crosswalks
- Google Scholar: Florida Rainbow Crosswalks
- AP News: Florida LGBTQ Rainbow Crosswalks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida Public Art
- Tallahassee.com: DeSantis Crosswalk Bill
- Google News: Florida Crosswalks Protests
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.
