Houston LGBTQIA+ Community Rallies to Protect Rainbow Crosswalks from Removal

Community Rally for Rainbow Crosswalks

• 🏳️‍🌈 Supporters gathered at the Pride Crosswalks on Westheimer and Taft in Houston, expressing feelings of being seen and welcomed.
• ✊ Kerianne Morrison, president of Pride Houston 365, emphasized the community's resilience, stating, "We're not going to stop. There is absolutely nothing that you can do to erase my pride, to erase my community pride."

Governor Abbott's Directive

• ⚠️ The rally follows Governor Greg Abbott's directive to transportation officials to remove "political ideologies" from roadways, citing safety standards.
• 🛣️ This directive aligns with a federal letter urging governors to keep intersections and crosswalks free of political or artistic markings.
• 📍 Metro confirmed that the Westheimer and Taft intersection is the only location they are currently working on to comply with the directive.

Symbolism of the Crosswalks

• 🏠 For many, the crosswalks symbolize a sense of home, friendship, and visibility within the community.
• 🤝 Jack Valinsky, president of the neartown Montro super neighborhood, described the crossing as a "symbol of unity" for the community.
• 😭 Resident Luke Carroll shared a personal story of being moved to tears upon seeing the crosswalks for the first time, finding validation that people like him existed.

Commitment to Advocacy

• 💪 Attendees expressed a strong commitment to fighting for their visibility and rights through various means, including gatherings, parades, and engaging with city hall.
• 🗣️ The overarching message from the community is one of not backing down and ensuring their voices are heard.