Putting the rainbow back: Orlando's Pulse memorial crosswalks

In today's episode, a rainbow crosswalk becomes a battleground. Overnight, state workers painted over Orlando's Pulse memorial crosswalk, igniting outrage from local leaders and LGBTQ+ advocates. We break down why the move wasn't just about paint—it was about politics, pride, and power. From Florida's new ban on "surface art" to federal letters warning cities to eliminate crosswalk "distractions," we explore how public space is being reshaped under the guise of traffic safety. Plus, a look at other cities fighting back with creative expression, and the local chalk artists ready to bring the rainbows back—hairspray in hand. Officials denounce removal of rainbow crosswalk near site of Pulse nightclub shooting (Mike Schneider, ABC News / AP, Aug 21, 2025) Florida Locals Defy Ron DeSantis By Restoring Pulse Rainbow Crosswalk (Marni Rose McFall, Newsweek, Aug 22, 2025) 'Deeply concerning': reading for fun in the US has fallen by 40%, new study says (Benjamin Lee, The Guardian, Aug 20, 2025) Instagram: @condensedsouppodcast [email protected]