Florida Aims to Remove Rainbow Crosswalks
Statewide Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Symbols Escalates
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), under Governor Ron DeSantis, has announced plans to remove a rainbow-striped crosswalk in Delray Beach—an emblem advocating for LGBTQ+ pride and inclusion. The agency stated its intent to eliminate the crosswalk “by any means necessary,” reinforcing the DeSantis administration’s broader initiative to roll back what it deems “woke culture.” The governor previously declared Florida to be “where diversity initiatives go to die,” signaling a concerted effort to diminish LGBTQ+ visibility in public spaces.
Delray Beach Declines to Back Down
In response to state pressure, Delray Beach city officials voted to preserve the rainbow intersection. The move followed a forceful response from Vice Mayor Rob Long, who called attention to the lack of formal notice from the FDOT and absence of clear alternative design protocols for the intersection.
The standoff intensified when the FDOT sent an official letter to City Manager Terrance Moore, demanding the removal of the rainbow crosswalk by September 3. If the city fails to comply, the agency vowed to take matters into its own hands, threatening to dismantle the crosswalk without any additional notice.
State Threatens Financial Penalties
According to LGBTQ Nation, the FDOT’s letter isn’t just a demand—it carries financial consequences. The agency warned that it would not only charge Delray Beach for the removal costs but would also consider withholding select public funds if the city refused to take action.
City Manager Terrance Moore acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the pressure from Tallahassee. “Like many other cities in Florida, Delray Beach is being asked to bring our intersection into compliance with state safety requirements. We expect work to begin in the coming days,” he stated.
Local Leaders Frame Controversy as Cultural Conflict
Vice Mayor Rob Long insists the dispute is not about traffic safety, but about political ideology:
“Let’s be honest. This isn’t about traffic regulations—it’s political. This move is part of a broader cultural battle targeting symbols of inclusivity. These symbols aren’t being removed because they pose any risk. They’re being targeted because they stand for acceptance and visibility. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under attack, this sends the wrong message.”
Long also emphasized the deeper meaning the rainbow crosswalk holds for the local community:
“Symbols hold power. They let our residents, tourists—and especially our young people—know that they are seen and supported. Taking away this crosswalk without unified city council backing or a plan to preserve the design elsewhere sends exactly the wrong signal, especially right now.”
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