In Houston, the city’s LGBTQ+ Montrose neighborhood is reeling after the removal of its iconic rainbow crosswalks, a move ordered by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. While most of the local queer community condemned the decision, one group is standing by it.
The Log Cabin Republicans of Houston, a conservative LGBTQ+ organization, defended the removal, calling the crosswalks “politically divisive artwork.”
Danny Stevens, president of the group, said, “We believe community initiatives should prioritize safety and fairness for everyone…Removing or modifying the Pride crosswalks is not about erasing anyone’s identity — it’s about ensuring public projects are inclusive, safe, and consistent in how taxpayer resources are used. That means no special treatment for any group, including our own.”
Log Cabin’s statement came as protesters gathered at the site, demanding the restoration of the crosswalks originally painted to honor Alex Hill, a 21-year-old killed nearby in a hit-and-run. However, local leaders, including Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Commissioner Lesley Briones, blasted the state’s order as “disappointing” and “a waste of taxpayer money.”
