AUSTIN, Texas — Central Presbyterian Church painted its exterior steps in rainbow colors Sunday in what leaders called a public statement that all people are welcome, as the city grapples with a state directive targeting street art.
Volunteers and church members transformed the 18-step staircase leading from Brazos Street and East Eighth Street to the church grounds into a rainbow gradient.
“This project is more than a color refresh; it is a public reminder that everyone belongs,” church officials said in a statement. “This rainbow of colors will show our surrounding community that all people are valued and welcome here.”
The beautification project comes as Austin navigates Gov. Greg Abbott’s recent directive ordering cities to remove what he called “political ideologies” from streets. The city has identified 16 crosswalks and street murals that may need removal under the order…