The rainbow belongs to everyone—especially our children.
Lately, it feels like every inch of public life has been politicized. Streets, schools, stadiums—no space is safe from symbolism. Now even the beach is getting dragged into it. With Florida’s Department of Transportation calling for the removal of a rainbow crosswalk in a popular beach town, the backlash has been loud. But here’s the thing: it’s not about hate. It’s about balance.
What Is the Beach Supposed to Be?
For generations, the beach has been a symbol of freedom, relaxation, and fun. It’s where people escape politics—not confront them. But somewhere along the way, the shoreline became another front in the culture war.
Do we really need political statements under our feet when we’re trying to enjoy the sun?
Crosswalks Are for Safety, Not Statements
A painted rainbow crosswalk might feel inclusive to some, but it’s also an example of how public space has turned into a platform for ideology. Crosswalks are supposed to help people cross safely—not push a message.
If every group wanted to brand a piece of the pavement, chaos would follow. That’s why standards exist. It’s not about exclusion. It’s about order and neutrality.
What Happened to the Rainbow?
The rainbow used to mean something simple. Joy. Wonder. Childhood. You’d see it in cartoons, picture books, and birthday parties. Now, for many, it’s been politically redefined.
But why can’t it be both? Why must one group own a universal symbol?
Symbols should unite—not divide.
Trump and the Pushback Against Cultural Overreach
Donald Trump tapped into something powerful: the idea that the average American is tired of being told what to think. The rainbow crosswalk debate isn’t really about paint—it’s about people feeling pushed around by politics in everyday life.
There’s a reason this kind of cultural pushback is gaining momentum in 2025. People want their public spaces back. They want to enjoy life without walking on eggshells—or rainbow-colored sidewalks.
Inclusivity Shouldn’t Be Invasive
Everyone deserves respect. But respect doesn’t mean rewriting every surface to reflect one viewpoint. It means keeping common areas common.
The moment we turn crosswalks into statements, we stop thinking about the shared experience—and start fighting over who gets the mic next.
Let the Beach Be What It Was Meant to Be
Leave the slogans to signs, the symbols to flags, and the messaging to parades.
Let the beach be the beach. Let families enjoy the sun. Let people walk without being preached to.
Neutral doesn’t mean anti-anyone. It means everyone belongs.
And yes, the rainbow still belongs to children.
