Across the land, rainbow crosswalks face orders to erase 'asphalt art' - The Boston Globe
bostonglobe.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 5:58:25 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Political Protests & Rallies, State Politics & Governors, Social Media & Public Statements
"That crosswalk is really important," said Rodriguez, whose cousin was shot in the attack at Pulse but survived. The artwork was Orlando's response to make the community feel "comfortable and welcome and loved." And in the aftermath of "a horrible, horrible situation ... it did create this bond."
Across the state and the country, this and thousands of other brightly painted street crossings would be paved over under guidance recently issued by the administrations of Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and President Trump. The dual directives call for the erasure of "asphalt art."
In the federal letter, sent July 1, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy gave states 60 days to study crosswalks at intersections and develop a list of "compliance concerns" in their states as part of his SAFE ROADS initiative. Duffy said "non-standard" colors don't belong on streets.
"Roads are for safety, not political messages or artwork," he said in a statement announcing the initiative.
The memo from the Florida Department of Transportation took a similar stance and warned city and county leaders that the state could withhold funding if they didn't acquiesce: "This includes directing the removal of non-compliant traffic control devices and surface markings, including pavement art installations."
Jared Perdue, who heads the state agency, also raised the issue of autonomous vehicles, writing that "consistent application of pavement surfaces is critical" for them.
The available data don't bear out the safety concerns. A 2022 study by Bloomberg Philanthropies, an organization that funds street art projects, examined the crash history at 17 asphalt art sites across the country where there was a minimum of two years of crash statistics. It found 83 fewer crashes at the analyzed intersections -- more than a 50 percent decrease compared with data from before the crosswalks were painted.
"My thoughts are that this is political in nature and not directly related to traffic safety," said Samuel Kaufman, a city commissioner in Key West, where a Duval Street intersection painted with rainbow crosswalks in 2015 quickly became a popular tourist draw. "City officials have checked all traffic incidents over many years, and there has not been a single reported traffic-related incident related to the crosswalks."
Numerous cities in Florida have promoted street paintings as part of their culture. In Key West, according to Kaufman, the four rainbows at Duval and Petronia streets are "one of the most photographed areas on the island."
The commissioners there last week approved a proclamation declaring them "a treasured cultural district" -- one way supporters hope to save them from being paved over. A rally ahead of the vote drew more than 100 people calling for preservation.
"It's part of the identity of our community of being an inclusive place," Kaufman said, "a place that welcomes all people, regardless of who you are."
Some Florida cities have already decided to return such crosswalks to standard asphalt rather than fight back. Boynton Beach paved over one shortly after the city received the memo from the state. Gainesville city commissioners voted on Aug. 7 to remove three rainbow crosswalks, saying they had no choice because the city cannot afford to replace the transportation funds the state is threatening to cancel.
In Orlando, the rainbow crosswalk shares the streets with other colorful asphalt decor -- murals, rainbows, even swans on their way to the city's main park, where a flock of live ones grace the small Lake Eola. A permanent memorial to the victims of the Pulse shooting will be built next year, with plans to still incorporate the crosswalk.
"It's part of the design ... that the state of Florida has given approval to," said state Senator Carlos Guillermo-Smith, a Democrat from Orlando. "More importantly, it's a symbol not only of LBGTQ people, but also our city's own history, and the way our community came together in the wake of that tragedy."
Like Kaufman in Orlando, Guillermo-Smith said the warnings to remove painted crosswalks are based on politics.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent push by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the Trump administration to erase colorful crosswalks—specifically those featuring rainbow colors symbolizing LGBTQ+ pride—highlights a troubling trend in American politics: the erosion of community expression in favor of a narrow, politically driven interpretation of public safety. This initiative, cloaked in the language of safety and uniformity, underscores a broader pattern of conservative governance that seeks to stifle cultural and social progress, particularly for marginalized groups. The rainbow crosswalks serve as a poignant reminder of resilience in the face of tragedy, as exemplified by the community's response to the Pulse nightclub shooting, yet they are now threatened by political machinations that deny their cultural significance.
Historically, political movements that marginalize and erase the symbols of inclusivity often do so under the guise of maintaining order and safety. This latest directive from the DeSantis administration mirrors past efforts to suppress social movements through legislation and policy changes. For instance, during the civil rights era, efforts to integrate public spaces were often met with staunch opposition under the pretext of maintaining public order. The current debate surrounding the removal of "asphalt art" can be seen as an extension of this historical struggle, as it directly targets symbols of LGBTQ+ pride and acceptance. By labeling these expressions as "non-standard," the administration is not only dismissing their cultural relevance but also perpetuating a narrative that views diversity as a threat rather than a strength.
Furthermore, the argument that colorful crosswalks compromise traffic safety is fundamentally flawed and not supported by evidence. A study from Bloomberg Philanthropies demonstrates a significant reduction in traffic incidents at locations with painted crosswalks, challenging the proposed justification for their removal. This raises critical questions about the motivations behind the initiative. When public safety arguments are used to undermine community symbols, it suggests a deeper political agenda—one that seeks to erase the visibility of LGBTQ+ identities and diminish the progress made toward social equity. As Samuel Kaufman, a city commissioner in Key West, astutely observed, the lack of traffic incidents related to these crosswalks indicates that the political narrative is not grounded in reality but rather in an ideological war against social change.
The significance of the rainbow crosswalks extends beyond their aesthetic appeal; they represent a collective commitment to inclusivity and acceptance. As Kaufman noted, these installations have become integral to the identity of communities such as Key West, which pride themselves on being welcoming and culturally rich. The grassroots support for preserving these crosswalks—evidenced by the recent rally that drew in over 100 supporters—highlights the community's determination to resist erasure. This local activism serves as a microcosm of broader social struggles, where communities are increasingly mobilizing against policies that seek to undermine their values and identities. Such movements are vital in the fight for social justice, reminding us of the power of collective action in safeguarding the cultural fabric of our communities.
To counter these efforts, it is essential for advocates of social justice to engage in informed dialogue with those who may support such policies. Emphasizing the historical context of marginalized identities, the empirical data supporting the safety of rainbow crosswalks, and the cultural significance of inclusive symbols can help dismantle the arguments presented by political opponents. Additionally, framing this issue within the broader narrative of civil rights can illuminate the parallels between past and present struggles for equity and inclusion. By doing so, advocates can effectively challenge the mainstream narratives that seek to delegitimize expressions of diversity and foster a deeper understanding of why these symbols matter to individuals and communities alike.
The recent directive from Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis and the Trump administration demanding the removal of rainbow crosswalks, described as "asphalt art," raises critical questions about the intersection of public policy, community identity, and the politics of inclusion. These colorful street markings, often seen as symbols of LGBTQ+ pride and acceptance, are under threat, ostensibly due to concerns over traffic safety and standardization. However, the evidence suggests that this initiative is less about safety and more about a broader political agenda aimed at erasing symbols of diversity and inclusivity from public spaces. Such actions are reminiscent of historical efforts to suppress marginalized voices and identities, demonstrating a troubling pattern in contemporary governance.
Historically, public art has served as a powerful medium for communities to express their identities and values. In the wake of the tragic Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, the installation of rainbow crosswalks became a poignant tribute to the victims and a declaration of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. This act of remembrance and celebration of diversity transformed urban landscapes into spaces of healing and unity. The directives to eliminate these artistic expressions echo previous eras when governments sought to control cultural narratives, stifling dissent and the visibility of marginalized groups. Just as past administrations may have sought to sanitize public discourse, the current push to erase "non-standard" colors from our streets is indicative of a conservative backlash against progressive social movements.
The Department of Transportation's argument that these vibrant crosswalks pose safety concerns is undermined by research indicating that such installations can actually enhance road safety. A 2022 study by Bloomberg Philanthropies found a significant reduction in traffic incidents at locations featuring asphalt art, suggesting that rather than posing a danger, these artistic expressions can contribute positively to community safety. This dissonance between the stated goals of the policy and the available data reflects a deeper ideological battle over the values that public spaces should embody. The insistence on uniformity in street markings not only disregards empirical evidence but also ignores the lived experiences of communities that have found empowerment and solace in these expressions of identity.
In response to these assaults on community expression, we, as engaged citizens, must galvanize our efforts to advocate for the preservation of cultural symbols that represent diversity and inclusion. One immediate step is to mobilize community support around local initiatives aimed at protecting these artworks. Communities can organize rallies, petitions, and public forums to voice their opposition to the removal of rainbow crosswalks. Engaging with local government officials and demanding that they prioritize the cultural significance of these installations can pressure them to reconsider compliance with state directives. Additionally, leveraging social media platforms to raise awareness and gather support can amplify community voices, bringing attention to the broader implications of erasing symbols of acceptance.
Moreover, education plays a pivotal role in this struggle. It is vital to inform the public about the historical significance of public art and its role in fostering inclusive communities. By sharing data on the safety benefits of these crosswalks with neighbors and local stakeholders, we can build a compelling case for their preservation. Community workshops or partnerships with local schools can create spaces for dialogue about the importance of diversity in public expression. This educational effort can encourage individuals to see these crosswalks not merely as aesthetic choices but as essential components of a community's identity and a testament to its commitment to inclusivity.
In conclusion, the challenge posed by the removal of rainbow crosswalks is emblematic of larger societal tensions regarding diversity, representation, and public space. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is crucial to recognize that the fight is not solely about colorful pavement but about the values we uphold as a society. By advocating for the preservation of these symbols, engaging in local activism, and fostering educational initiatives, we can push back against the forces that seek to erase our identities and create a more inclusive future for all. The battle over these crosswalks serves as a reminder of our collective power to shape our communities and ensure that they reflect the richness of our diverse experiences.
In light of the article regarding the controversial removal of rainbow crosswalks, there are several actionable steps individuals can take to support the preservation of these meaningful symbols of inclusivity and community. Below is a detailed list of ideas and actions, including whom to contact, petitions to sign, and suggested messaging.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Start by learning more about the impact of public art on community identity and safety. Share your knowledge with friends, family, and community members to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining inclusive symbols in public spaces.
2. **Support Local Initiatives** - Engage with local organizations that advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and community art. This might include attending events or volunteering your time.
3. **Participate in Local Government** - Attend city council meetings where the topic of public art and inclusivity is discussed. Use these platforms to voice your support for rainbow crosswalks and other forms of artistic expression.
### Exact Actions You Can Personally Take
1. **Sign Petitions** - Look for local and national petitions aimed at preserving rainbow crosswalks. For example, you can search platforms like Change.org or Care2 for existing petitions. Create one if none exist in your area.
Example: - **Petition to Preserve Rainbow Crosswalks in Key West**: [Change.org](https://www.change.org/) - Search for established petitions or create a new one with a clear message about the importance of these symbols.
2. **Contact Local Officials** - Write to your local government officials, expressing your support for maintaining rainbow crosswalks. Here’s a template for what to say:
**Template Email:** ``` Subject: Support for Rainbow Crosswalks in Our Community
Dear [Official's Name],
I am writing to express my support for the preservation of the rainbow crosswalks in our community. These vibrant symbols of inclusivity not only enhance the beauty of our streets but also foster a sense of belonging for all community members, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community.
Studies have shown that these crosswalks can improve safety and reduce accidents. I urge you to stand with our community and advocate for their continued presence.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
**Who to Contact:** - **Key West City Commissioner - Samuel Kaufman** - Email: kaufman@keywestcity.org - Mailing Address: 310 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
- **Florida Department of Transportation** - Email: info@dot.state.fl.us - Mailing Address: 605 Suwannee St, Tallahassee, FL 32399
3. **Organize or Attend a Rally** - Join or organize a rally to demonstrate community support for rainbow crosswalks. Gather people to advocate for the preservation of these installations and raise awareness about their significance.
4. **Leverage Social Media** - Use social media to share your views and encourage others to support the rainbow crosswalks. Create posts using hashtags like #SaveOurCrosswalks and tag local officials to draw attention to your cause.
5. **Collaborate with Local Artists** - Reach out to local artists or art collectives to brainstorm ways to engage the community in supporting public art. This could lead to new initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
6. **Contact Media Outlets** - Write letters to the editor or opinion pieces for local newspapers highlighting the importance of rainbow crosswalks and the broader implications of erasing such symbols of community identity.
### Additional Contacts - **Florida Governor Ron DeSantis** - Email: governorron.desantis@eog.myflorida.com - Mailing Address: 400 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL 32399 By taking these actions, you can contribute to a movement that values inclusivity and celebrates the cultural identity of communities through public art. Every voice counts in making a difference, and your efforts can help protect these cherished symbols.