Alexandria Draws Flak for Controversial Transgender Pride Artwork on Crosswalks
Alexandria, Virginia, has sparked controversy with its recent decision to paint “permanent” transgender pride artwork on crosswalks in its historic downtown area. The move has drawn criticism from some residents and organizations. The artwork, which was designed by local artist Casey Orr, features painted transgender flags and the words “Pride” and “Equality” in bold colors. It was installed on several crosswalks along King Street, the main street through downtown Alexandria. Supporters of the artwork argue that it sends a message of inclusivity and acceptance to transgender individuals. They believe that the crosswalks serve as a public canvas to highlight the struggles and experiences of the transgender community. However, critics have expressed concerns about the permanence of the artwork. They argue that it could detract from the historic character of downtown Alexandria, which is a designated National Historic Landmark. The Alexandria Preservation Alliance, a local historical preservation organization, has been particularly vocal in its opposition to the artwork. The group has argued that it violates the city’s historic design guidelines and that it was installed without proper public input. “The crosswalks are a very visible and important part of our historic streetscape,” said Lisa Bacon, president of the Alexandria Preservation Alliance. “We believe that this artwork is inappropriate and disrespectful to the history of our city.” City officials have defended the artwork, saying that it was installed with the proper permits and that it has received positive feedback from many residents. Mayor Justin Wilson has stated that the artwork will remain in place permanently. “Alexandria is a welcoming and diverse city, and we are proud to show our support for the transgender community,” Wilson said. “This artwork serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and equality.” The controversy over the transgender pride artwork has divided the Alexandria community. Some residents support the artwork as a symbol of acceptance, while others believe that it is out of place in the city’s historic downtown. It remains to be seen whether the artwork will stay in place or if the city will reconsider its decision.
The city of Alexandra, Virginia, is drawing fire for painting pride flags with transgender symbols at the crosswalks of its historic Old Town. ++(Photo: Shannon Finney/Getty Images)
Note: This article contains language that some readers may find offensive.
The city of Alexandra, Virginia, is drawing fire for painting pride flags with transgender symbols on crosswalks in historic downtown Alexandria.
The rainbow crossings are permanent, City Councilman R. Kirk McPike told a local publication, The Zebra.
“Last June, in response to requests from residents, I submitted a memo to Council, which my colleagues supported, asking staff to prepare a proposal for permanent Pride street artwork,” McPike told The Zebra. “Staff submitted a proposal to us last fall, which (the) Council approved, resulting in these beautiful new crosswalks.”
He also said in a tweet that the unveiling of the rainbow crosswalks was met with “great media fanfare” and an “exciting drag story time” during which men dressed as women in drag reading books and dancing for children.
In addition to his role on the Alexandria City Council, McPike serves as chief of staff to a California Democratic congressman, Rep. Mark Takano. McPike is married to a man.
He did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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What a great time at the Alexandria Pride Festival! We opened the rainbow zebra crossing with a lot of media fuss, had an exciting drag story time and dozens of stands offering information and services to the many residents who passed by! pic.twitter.com/dykdeAEKPh
— R. Kirk McPike (@KirkMcPike) June 1, 2024
Images of the flags sparked fierce criticism from users of X, formerly Twitter.
“Every day is hard, but June is incredibly hard as a parent trying to save your child from the clutches of the trans cult,” tweeted Tiffany Justice, co-founder of Moms for Liberty.
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