Montrose Community Rallies for Pride Crosswalks Against Removal Order

Community Gathering at Pride Crosswalks

• 🏳️‍🌈 A peaceful gathering is underway at the iconic Pride Crosswalk at Westheimer and Taft in Montrose.
• ✊ The event was organized by Pride Houston 365 in response to Governor Abbott's order to remove what he calls "political ideologies" from public roads.
• 📢 Supporters are showing up with flags and signs, receiving honks of support from passing cars.

Significance of the Crosswalks

• 💡 The crosswalks were originally painted in 2016 following the tragic killing of Alex Hill, symbolizing visibility and community support.
• 💖 For newcomers, seeing the Pride Crosswalks provided a sense of belonging and comfort, making them feel seen and accepted in Houston.
• 💔 The potential removal of the crosswalks is seen by many as an attempt to take away this sense of pride and progress.

Future Actions and Solidarity

• 🤝 Organizers are in conversations with the mayor's office and Metro to explore alternative ways to express pride if the crosswalks are removed.
• 🚩 Ideas include taking over a wall for art or increasing the presence of pride flags in the area.
• 💪 The message is clear: while the street can be restriped, the community's pride and visibility cannot be erased.
• 🗓️ The gathering coincides with National Coming Out Day, emphasizing solidarity and visibility.