Los Angeles recently removed the last remaining traffic signs from the Silver Lake neighborhood that were targeted towards the gay community. The signs, which read “No cruising. No U-turns. Midnight to 6 am,” were initially put up in 1997 in an attempt to discourage gay men from cruising the streets to meet up. However, in a move to embrace inclusivity, the signs were taken down just in time for PRIDE month this year.
Councilmember Nithya Raman highlighted the significance of this removal, stating that while Los Angeles has a history of welcoming the LGBTQIA+ community, instances of homophobia have been ingrained in the city’s physical spaces in the past. The signs were a remnant of this bigotry that persisted in Silver Lake, even 30 years after important protests like the Black Cat demonstrations.
In the late 90s, gay men often used printed guidebooks to find safe public spaces to connect without fear of persecution. Griffith Park Boulevard in Silver Lake was one of the areas listed for such encounters. Councilman Higo Soto-Martinez emphasized that the signs were specifically aimed at targeting and persecuting the LGBTQ+ community.
The first “No Cruising” signs were removed in 2011 after a vote by the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council. However, the remaining “No U-turn” signs and those with time restrictions were left untouched until now. The issue was brought to light by Silver Lake resident Donovan Daughtry after learning about the neighborhood’s queer history from a podcast episode.
Albert LeBarron, the co-owner of Akbar, a gay bar in the area, acknowledged that while the rowdiness outside bars may have been a concern, many individuals were simply looking for a place to belong. The removal of these signs signifies a step towards greater acceptance and inclusivity in Los Angeles.
The move to take down these signs reflects a broader shift towards creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation. It sends a powerful message of support and solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community, especially during PRIDE month. Los Angeles continues to evolve and embrace its diverse population, ensuring that all residents feel accepted and valued in the city.