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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
James Liddell

Activists redecorate Florida’s commemorative LGBT crosswalk after it was removed

  • A rainbow crosswalk memorialising the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting victims in Orlando was painted over, prompting outrage and attempts by advocates to restore it.
  • The removal occurred nearly two months after a Trump administration official instructed states to 'eliminate distractions' on public roads, with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer denouncing it as a 'callous' and 'cruel political act'.
  • Protesters used chalk to recreate the rainbow at the site, leading to an increased law enforcement presence and threats of arrest from Florida Highway troopers.
  • Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani criticised the overnight removal, stating the crosswalk was not political, while State Senator Carlos Smith vowed a larger, more colourful mural would emerge.
  • Governor Ron DeSantis defended the removal, stating state roads should not be 'commandeered for political purposes', despite his administration approving road names for political figures, though he has allocated funds for a permanent memorial.

IN FULL

Advocates use chalk to color in rainbow crosswalk near Pulse nightclub that was removed on Trump’s order

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