Florida Demands Removal of Miami Beach Rainbow Crosswalk

State Mandate on Rainbow Crosswalks

• ⚠️ The state of Florida has issued a non-compliance letter to Miami Beach, demanding the removal of a rainbow crosswalk at Ocean Avenue and 12th Street.
• 🗓️ Key West has been ordered to remove its rainbow crosswalk by September 3rd, with Miami Beach given a deadline of September 4th to comply.
• 🚫 The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) claims these surface arts are associated with social, political, or ideological messaging and do not serve traffic control purposes, potentially jeopardizing safety.

Community and Political Response

• 🏳️ The rainbow crosswalk in Miami Beach has been in place for nearly a decade and is seen by some as a symbol of the community's vibrant identity and inclusivity.
• 🗣️ Miami Beach Mayor Daniela Lavine Cava stated that the city will not be silenced or erased and highlighted that the crosswalk is constructed with actual pavers.
• 💔 Concerns are raised that the removal order sends a message of exclusion, stating, "we don't want you here."

Broader Implications and Actions

• 📍 Similar directives have been issued to other cities, including Delray Beach, impacting rainbow crosswalks and other surface art.
• ⚖️ Cities are able to apply for an administrative proceeding, but the markings would still need to be removed.
• 🤝 The crosswalk is described as being about "love and inclusivity and bringing everybody together."