Suck it, DeSantis. While no one said that verbatim, that was the mood at, and motivation behind, the unveiling of the Rainbow Circle of Love.
Located along A1A across from Sebastian Beach, it’s a direct response to Gov. DeSantis’ demand that all rainbow crosswalks be removed. (This has grown to accompany other themed-crosswalks but LGBTQ+ supportive rainbows were the impetus to the Republicans’ crusade.)
“As far as [Fort Lauderdale’s city] commission is concerned, we would not stand for that,” Mayor Dean Trantalis said. “If there’s anything that Fort Lauderdale represents, it’s diversity. People from all walks of life should be able to come here.”
The space looks like a pocket park, with the landscaped circle in the middle with rainbow colors radiating out. However, this is a private space, owned by Selene Condominiums. That puts it out of reach of Republicans who will accuse city leaders of being diverse and inclusive.
A representative for the Selene developers said the decision to work with the city was a no-brainer. “Literally, all we’ve probably done is ask for things (such as more height, more rooms) for 10 years. Just a couple of weeks ago [the city] asked us for something. We were really eager and excited to help.”
The new circle sits about 50 feet away from the street laminate of the progressive Pride flag. That was put in four years ago and was never meant to be permanent.
The day was considered a victory, ending lawsuits with the state and leaders were able to do an end-run around the people in Tallahassee.
“No one will ever take away our joy,” Commissioner Steve Glassman said at the dedication. “That is what we have. We have our joy. And we have our love. And that’s gonna guide us through the challenging times ahead.”
Screenshot via Greater Fort Lauderdale, YouTube.
