Florida cities defy DeSantis with vibrant Pride displays

St. Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale push back against anti-rainbow orders by showcasing Pride colors.

Told by Claire Lawson · 30 August 2026

In a colorful act of defiance against Governor Ron DeSantis’s recent orders to strip away rainbow symbols, two Florida cities are making their Pride visible in creative ways. Beginning Pride Month with flair, St. Petersburg adorned the steps of its City Hall with the hues of the Progress Pride flag. Dr. Byron Green-Calisch, president of St. Pete Pride, emphasized the significance of these visual cues, stating the loss of rainbow crosswalks was felt deeply, making the new installations a fitting response.

Mayor Ken Welch added, "The Pride steps at City Hall are more than paint on concrete. They are a reflection of St. Petersburg’s values and a reminder that our city is strongest when everyone feels welcome, respected, and seen."

Meanwhile, Fort Lauderdale unveiled a 'Circle of Love' at a local beach area, cleverly placed on private property to circumvent state restrictions. Mayor Dean Trantalis celebrated the installation as a testament to the city’s commitment to diversity, asserting, "We’re going to find a way to still be able to appreciate and embrace the diversity of our community."

The backdrop for these actions is a state directive aimed at removing artistic expressions like rainbow crosswalks, reflecting a broader trend of anti-LGBTQ+ policies. While DeSantis's administration has threatened local funding in response to these displays, both cities are doubling down on their visual commitments to inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community.