LOS ANGELES — Frustrated with the slow pace of the city's response to unsafe intersections, activists in Los Angeles are taking matters into their own hands by painting crosswalks themselves. This grassroots effort culminated in the arrest of Jonathan Hale, a leader of the group People's Vision Zero, for vandalism during a public painting event.
In a video posted online, Hale is seen being taken into custody by a police officer while wearing a bright yellow safety vest. You’re vandalizing city property without a permit,” the officer states, to which a voice off-camera replies, “Leave him alone. He’s not doing anything wrong.”
Hale and his fellow activists have been conducting stealth crosswalk painting operations throughout Los Angeles at intersections they consider hazardous for pedestrians. Operating with makeshift barricades and yellow tape, they quickly apply bright white markings that they argue are compliant with city codes.
“This situation could have been avoided if the mayor’s office didn't ignore a life-threatening issue,” Hale stated. Following his arrest, he underscored the potential waste of taxpayer dollars that could result from the city having to remove their work.
The protests are part of a broader call for action regarding the city’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate pedestrian deaths but has faced criticism for inadequate progress. Hale noted that he is in touch with the city’s Department of Transportation, but responses have been scarce.
Alex Ramirez from the nonprofit Los Angeles Walks emphasized the need for a structured program that empowers residents to make streets safer, saying, “When communities flag dangerous intersections and see no response, people take action out of necessity.”
Hale is scheduled to appear in court on January 5, facing misdemeanor vandalism charges. Meanwhile, the mayor's office has stated their willingness to collaborate with community members to enhance street safety.
