Paving over pride won’t silence Houston’s LGBTQ+ community

Paving Over Pride Won’t Silence Houston’s LGBTQ+ Community

Despite efforts from the current administration to cover up art and symbols representing hope, Houston’s LGBTQ+ community remains resilient. In July, a nationwide initiative began aimed at removing political expression and artwork from public roadways.

Impact of the National Initiative

This movement has reached Texas, targeting rainbow-painted crosswalks across the country. On October 8, Governor Greg Abbott issued a directive to remove all road murals in Texas, citing safety and distraction concerns. He warned that cities ignoring the order could lose transportation funding.

Governor Abbott’s Statement

"Removing road murals keeps the state moving safely and free from distraction."

Community Response

The removal initiative effectively silences LGBTQ+ voices, repeating troubling patterns from the past. These murals and political art celebrate equality, acceptance, and social justice, honoring the progress toward equal rights for all.

"Art and political messages celebrate equality, acceptance and social justice. It memorializes how far we have come to promote equal rights for all."

Summary

This campaign to erase LGBTQ+ symbols from public spaces challenges community expression but also strengthens the resolve to uphold visibility and equality.

The Cougar — 2025-11-05