Story perspectives

Florida Removes Rainbow Crosswalk, Sparking Outrage and Condemnation

8/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Florida Department of Transportation removed the rainbow crosswalk at the Pulse nightclub memorial, sparking outrage from LGBTQ+ leaders and survivors.
State Rep. Anna Eskamani called the removal a secretive act of bigotry, citing prior approval and safety benefits.
Brandon Wolf criticized the action as an attempt to erase queer visibility and urged restoration of the crosswalk.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer condemned the removal as a "cruel political act," noting the absence of safety data.
The crosswalk, installed after the 2016 massacre, symbolized mourning and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community.

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Story summary

The Florida Department of Transportation removed the rainbow crosswalk at the Pulse nightclub memorial, sparking outrage from LGBTQ+ leaders and survivors.
State Rep. Anna Eskamani called the removal a secretive act of bigotry, citing prior approval and safety benefits.
Brandon Wolf criticized the action as an attempt to erase queer visibility and urged restoration of the crosswalk.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer condemned the removal as a "cruel political act," noting the absence of safety data.
The crosswalk, installed after the 2016 massacre, symbolized mourning and resilience for the LGBTQ+ community.