Skivvies
To our neighbors, friends and the heartbeat of Cedar Springs:
We are deeply saddened and frustrated by the city and state’s decision to remove the iconic rainbow crosswalks from the intersections of Oak Lawn early this morning. For years, these colors have served as more than just paint on asphalt; they have been a symbol of sanctuary, a landmark of our history, and a vibrant reminder that in this neighborhood, you are seen, you are safe, and you are celebrated.
The decision to erase these symbols is a targeted attempt to diminish our visibility.
However, there is a fundamental truth that those behind this decision fail to understand: Our pride is not held in the pavement; it is held in our people.
The powers that be may believe that by removing our colors, they can erase our community and the values we stand for. They are wrong. Throughout history, the LGBTQ+ community has flourished not because of state-sanctioned symbols, but through the sheer will and courage of individuals standing together against exclusion.
We will continue to show up, speak out and take up space.
This move only serves to solidify our bond and sharpen our resolve.
This neighborhood was built on resilience, and that spirit remains unshaken.
Nothing can stop the progress we have made or the future we are building together.
While the streets may look different today, our commitment to this community is deeper and more colorful than ever. We aren’t going anywhere. We will continue to stand, continue to love and continue to fight for the recognition we deserve.
Crossroads Coalition of North Texas:
LGBTQ Texans are resilient. We adapt; we persist, and we persevere. The removal of our rainbow crosswalks does not erase who we are. We still invest in our small businesses along the strip. We will continue to dance the night away at the Round-Up Saloon and tip our favorite drag performers at The Rose Room.
We are not going anywhere.
As we’ve said before, Texas has an obligation to prioritize what really matters in this state — whether it’s cost of living, ensuring our children are safe, ensuring that literary freedoms are accessible and so much more. To prioritize anything less is a disservice to all Texans.
The cruel removal of our rainbow crosswalks only strengthens our movement. This is still our home, as seen in the Pride flags and banners proudly waving across the neighborhood. Today and every day after, LGBTQ folks from North Texas and beyond will show up and show out. Proudly. We deserve that much. And no one can take that away from us.
The Crossroads Coalition of North Texas is a group of 501c3 nonprofits and service-based organizations in North Texas that aims to empower and uplift communities of color, LGBTQIA+ communities and low-income individuals through advocacy, action, education and non-partisan voter engagement.