In Orlando, Florida, a crosswalk near the former Pulse nightclub has become a focal point of a prolonged statewide debate, which intensified recently when two individuals were detained for using chalk to restore its colors.
Originally installed in 2017, the crosswalk on Orange Avenue served as a memorial and symbol of inclusion and LGBTQ pride following the tragic 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting, which claimed 49 lives. However, it was controversially removed last August due to a directive from the Trump administration.
For many, the crosswalk was more than just art; it was an integral part of the memorial for those lost in the senseless act of violence at the LGBTQ venue.
James Houchins, one of the demonstrators who was arrested, remains resolute in his commitment to the cause. “I thought — how stupid,” Houchins expressed, reflecting on his arrest on November 23rd.
Houchins, along with fellow activist Austin Trahan, had been apprehended after inscribing the word “RESIST” and bringing back the vibrant colors to the crosswalk using chalk.
He and fellow activist Austin Trahan were taken into custody after chalking the word ‘RESIST’ and adding colors back to the crosswalk.
“We were told that morning around 8 o’clock that FDOT came through, washed everything, and removed everything. After that, we came back to re-chalk, recolor, and put flags back out.”
Houchins said the rainbow crosswalk had become a significant part of the community’s remembrance efforts.
“Forty-nine victims — this was part of the memorial until the state came in and ripped it up like it was nothing. So continuing this fight until those colors are returned — it hits deep.”
Initially, both men faced a felony criminal mischief charge. A judge later found no probable cause for the felony but did find probable cause for a lesser misdemeanor charge to move forward.
FDOT and the Florida Highway Patrol have argued that a crosswalk is a “traffic control device,” and altering it — even with chalk — violates state regulations. Houchins and other advocates dispute that interpretation.
When asked whether he plans to continue chalking the crosswalk, Houchins didn’t hesitate. “Yes — the chalking won’t stop.”
To many passersby, Houchins said, it may seem like just a crosswalk. But for him and others in Orlando’s LGBTQ community, it represents something larger.
“Continuing to show up for me is a fight back that you’re not going to erase me, and you won’t erase my community,” he said. “We are not going to fight or go away silently. Stonewall started with a brick, and in Florida, it starts with chalk.”
News 6 has reached out to FDOT and FHP for comment regarding the arrests and is awaiting a response.
Houchins says the movement now looks toward Day 100 on Saturday — another milestone in a protest he insists will continue.
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