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The iconic rainbow-colored crosswalk on Ocean Drive, a symbol of inclusion and LGBTQ+ pride in Miami Beach, was removed by order of the state of Florida.
The measure was implemented on Monday, two days after local authorities lost their appeal against the order from the state Department of Transportation.
State brigades removed the multicolored bricks, leaving the intersection paved with asphalt. The pieces were collected by city public employees for potential future use, as confirmed by Commissioner Alex Fernández.
"Even if it is no longer on the street, this step represented decades of struggle for civil rights, against discrimination, and for the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community," Fernández stated.
The intersection, designed by Savino & Miller Design Studio and installed in 2018, featured multicolored terrazzo in an Art Deco pattern, a characteristic style of the city. For years, it served as a tourist attraction and a symbol of road safety, with an accident rate lower than the regional average.
The removal comes after an order issued by the administration of Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who instructed all municipalities to erase street art from their roads or risk losing state funding. The order has been criticized by human rights organizations as an offensive against symbols of diversity.
The state had set a deadline of early September for cities such as Miami Beach, Key West, and Fort Lauderdale to remove the rainbow crosswalks.
"We will not allow our roads to be taken for political purposes," DeSantis stated, affirming that the measure responds to the need to maintain "consistent road safety standards" in the state.
Frequently Asked Questions about the removal of the rainbow crosswalk on Ocean Drive
Why was the rainbow crosswalk on Ocean Drive removed?
The rainbow crosswalk on Ocean Drive was removed by order of the state of Florida, which deemed it non-compliant with state traffic control regulations. Governor Ron DeSantis ordered the removal of street art on roads, or municipalities would lose state funding.
What did the rainbow crosswalk symbolize in Miami Beach?
The rainbow crosswalk in Miami Beach was a symbol of inclusion and LGBTQ+ pride, designed to represent decades of struggle for civil rights and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, it was a tribute to the legacy of Leonard Horowitz and the Art Deco style of the city.
How has the community reacted to the removal of the rainbow crossing?
The removal of the rainbow crosswalk has been criticized by human rights organizations and activists as an offensive act against symbols of diversity and inclusion. Commissioner Alex Fernández expressed that the decision is heartbreaking and contrary to the safe functioning of the crossing.
What actions does Miami Beach plan to take following the removal of the pedestrian walkway?
Miami Beach plans to seek other ways to celebrate inclusion and diversity, despite the removal of the pedestrian walkway. Commissioner Fernández assured that the city will continue to promote the values of diversity and equality.
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