Full Breakdown
Texas Church Defies Governor's Order by Painting Rainbow Steps
10/24/2025, 10:30:07 PM
Background on the Removal of Rainbow Crosswalks
On October 8, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an order mandating the removal of rainbow crosswalks across the state, citing the need for political neutrality on public roadways. Abbott stated, “Texans expect their taxpayer dollars to be used wisely, not to advance political agendas on Texas roadways.” Local authorities were given 30 days to comply or risk losing state funding. This directive follows similar actions in other states, including Florida, where rainbow crosswalks have also been removed.
Oak Lawn United Methodist Church's Response
In direct response to Abbott's order, the Oak Lawn United Methodist Church (OLUMC) in Dallas began painting its front steps in rainbow colors on October 21, 2025. The church, which has a long-standing relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, aims to use this visual protest as a statement of faith and solidarity. Senior Pastor Rachel Griffin-Allison emphasized that the act is not political but pastoral, stating, “When forces of power try to erase symbols of queer joy and inclusion, the Church has a choice — to retreat into comfort or to step forward in courage. We’re choosing courage.”
Community Support and Protests
The initiative has garnered support from various community members and organizations. Local LGBTQ+ nonprofit Resource Center's CEO, Cece Cox, remarked that expressions of cultural identity should not be erased. In addition to the church's efforts, protests erupted in Houston, where demonstrators attempted to block the removal of rainbow crosswalks, leading to several arrests. Residents in Dallas also participated in protests, with some drawing chalk rainbows on sidewalks to express their dissent against the removals.
Official Statements & Responses
Griffin-Allison articulated the church's mission, stating, “Every person is created in the image of God and worthy of safety, dignity, and belonging.” She further noted, “Silence is not neutral — silence in the face of harm always sides with the oppressor.” Dallas City Council members have also criticized Abbott's directive, with Councilmember Adam Bazaldua describing it as “political bullying” and asserting that “a rainbow is not a political statement.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Abbott's order argue that the removal of rainbow crosswalks is an attack on LGBTQ+ visibility and rights. Some community leaders have labeled the governor's actions as an attempt to erase symbols of inclusion and joy. The church's initiative to paint its steps is seen as a necessary act of defiance against what many perceive as an oppressive political climate.
What's Next
The painting of the steps at OLUMC is expected to take approximately two weeks, with church volunteers applying multiple coats of paint and a non-slip sealer. The church hopes that this project will serve as a sanctuary of hope for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, reinforcing their commitment to inclusivity and support.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The governor may remove a rainbow from a roadway, but he cannot erase the image of God in God’s people.” — Rev. Rachel Griffin-Allison, Senior Pastor, Oak Lawn United Methodist Church
- “Every person is worthy of safety, dignity, and belonging” — Rev. Rachel Griffin-Allison, Senior Pastor, Oak Lawn United Methodist Church
- “None of those expressions of free speech and cultural identity should be erased for any reason whatsoever,” — Cece Cox, CEO, Resource Center
