The mayor of Salisbury, Maryland, has announced plans to remove three LGBTQ+ Pride-themed crosswalks in the city’s downtown, stating the move is to “maintain neutrality” on government property. The decision has sparked backlash from members of the LGBTQ+ community, who argue it erases hard-won grassroots visibility.
As reported by WMDT, the city is now seeking artists to design new crosswalks that “embody the character, history, or artistic vibrancy of the city.” The selected artwork will replace the current rainbow, transgender, and Progress Pride flag designs.
Mayor Randy Taylor defended the decision, saying:
“Our city is home to a diverse and vibrant community, and we want our public spaces to be welcoming to all. However, we also have a responsibility to ensure that government property remains neutral and does not promote any particular movement or cause.”
“By moving forward with a neutral design, we are ensuring that city property remains a place where every individual, regardless of background or belief, feels they belong.”
Community Pushback and Allegations of Erasure
One reader of LGBTQ Nation responded critically, calling the move an act of erasure:
“This is grassroots visibility being erased by government policy—and it’s happening in a place where the LGBTQ+ community already faces hostility. The crosswalk was approved by a prior [mayoral] administration … The new administration’s push for ‘neutrality’ is really about erasure.”
The rainbow crosswalk was originally painted in 2018 by over 60 volunteers with the Salisbury chapter of PFLAG. Community members travelled up to three hours to participate, donating paint and supplies. It was the first Pride-themed crosswalk in the state of Maryland. The transgender and Progress Pride crosswalks were added in 2021 and have been maintained annually each October during LGBTQ+ History Month since 2022.
Critics argue that the removal is in line with broader Republican and conservative efforts across the United States to reduce public displays of LGBTQ+ support under the banner of rejecting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
‘Crosswalk Canvas’ Project Replaces Pride Design
In place of the Pride crosswalks, the city has launched the “Crosswalk Canvas” program. Selected artists will receive a $3,000 stipend to create a design that “aligns with the city’s commitment to keeping public spaces free of political or ideological influence while ensuring they remain welcoming and inclusive for all residents.”
The winning design will be chosen by 14 July by a panel including city officials and members of the Public Art Committee. The repainting will commence on 15 July and be completed by mid-September. New designs will remain in place for up to two years.
