Austrian City Removes Gay Crossing Lights

An Austrian city has removed crossing lights that depict same-sex icons holding hands, intended to promote tolerance in the city.

The BBC reports the signals were first introduced in Vienna last May, but after gaining popularity several other cities introduced them. In the city of Linz, however, a right-wing leader who opposed the signals from the start said the signals were “unnecessary.”

“Traffic lights are for traffic and should not be misused to impart advice on how to live your life,” said local official Markus Hein, according to the BBC. Hein argues that because gay rights are already advanced in the country, there is no need for the signals.

Officials and advocates who supported the signals, which were funded by private donations, say their removal marks a step backwards for gay rights and tolerance.

[BBC]