As Delray Beach celebrates Pride Month for the first time without its beloved rainbow mural, the community is rallying to propose a permanent tribute to honor the victims of the tragic Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando. This mural, initially created to commemorate the 49 lives lost in the 2016 attack, was removed by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) last September as part of a statewide initiative aimed at regulating ideological images on public roadways.

The absence of the mural has been deeply felt in Delray Beach, where many locals cherished it as a symbol of unity and remembrance. Activist Ronnie Dunayer, a member of the newly formed Delray Beach Pride Memorial Committee, described the removal as “horrific.” She emphasized the importance of understanding the history of the Pulse tragedy, which she termed a terrorist act. Dunayer and her fellow committee members are now pushing for the construction of a unique monument—a rainbow pyramid—to serve as a lasting memorial.

A New Symbol of Unity

The proposed rainbow pyramid monument is set to stand 8 feet tall and 4.5 feet wide, strategically located near Old School Square, where the original mural once graced the intersection. The monument will feature engraved descriptions that explain its symbolism and will be illuminated at night, ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope and remembrance.

Dunayer articulated that the pyramid represents ascent, togetherness, integrity, and the connection between earth, ground, and humanity. This initiative aims not only to honor the LGBTQ+ community but also to ensure that the memory of those lost in the Pulse shooting is never forgotten.

Interestingly, a local artist has already stepped forward to design and maintain the pyramid, with the entire project expected to be funded through donations, ensuring no cost to taxpayers. City representatives have yet to make a decision regarding the project, but they remain open to both public and private proposals for supporting Pride initiatives.

The Community’s Response

Critics of the mural’s removal, like local resident Randi Brunbaugh, have pointed to safety concerns, arguing that there were nearly eight times more accidents at that intersection before the mural’s installation. However, Dunayer and others in the community feel that the mural was more than just an image; it was a powerful statement of solidarity and remembrance.

The Pulse nightclub massacre not only shook Orlando but also reverberated throughout the nation, sparking discussions about safety, inclusivity, and the importance of memorializing tragic events. Mayor Buddy Dyer of Orlando has expressed his dismay over the removal of the memorial, labeling it a “cruel political action.” He emphasized that Orlando would continue to honor the 49 victims, asserting that the city would not forget their legacy.

As Delray Beach forges ahead with plans for the rainbow pyramid, it reflects a broader commitment to celebrating diversity and honoring those who have suffered. The community is eager to turn the page and create a new symbol that encapsulates resilience, love, and unity amidst adversity.

For more details on this story, you can visit the original sources: CBS12 and WPTV.