Liberal Democrats are asking Medway Council to consider a 'Rainbow Crossing' to promote Diversity
*picture by alan wells
Medway Liberal Democrats are hoping to bring a splash of colour to Medway - and send a clear message about diversity.
Liberal Democrats are calling on the Council to consider remarking a pedestrian crossing in Rainbow colours as a way of supporting and highlighting the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in Medway.
We are proposing that the Council follow the example of other Highways Authorities that have introduced 'Rainbow' or 'Progress Pride' crossings as a permanent way to celebrate LGBTQ+ communities and diversity. So far, 15 London boroughs have pedestrian crossings in the six -colour Pride flag, which for the past 42 years has been the internationally recognised symbol of the LGBT+ community. A permanent Progress Pride rainbow pedestrian crossing that reflects the diversity of the Medway's LGBT+ community.
'Progress Pride' crossings with rainbow colours and chevrons show respect for trans and non-binary people, people of colour and those living with HIV/AIDS.
Paul O'neill, Diversity Officer for Medway Liberal Democrats said, "The crossing would encourage discussion, and would show our respect for the diversity of Medway. Rainbow crossings have been introduced in several authorities in the UK in recent years. 'Rainbow' or 'progress pride' crossings have already been installed by a number of councils across the country, in recognition of LGBTQ+ communities."
The distinctive 'rainbow crossings' feature lines in the six colours of the rainbow flag - a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride. Meanwhile 'progress pride crossings' also include chevron stripes in the colours of black, brown, pink, pale blue and white - representing people of colour in the LGBTQ+ community, as well as the trans community, and those living with HIV/AIDS.
In December 2018 a new raised multi coloured crossing was opened on Island Way West near St. Mary's Island School to improve road safety. The crossing was the first of its kind to be installed in Kent. Medway Council launched a competition for pupils to design a colourful crossing to be built near the school.
The crossing, which features a rainbow, was installed by Thames Hydro Blasting using environmentally friendly materials, and crossing was paid for by the developer, Countryside Maritime, as part of their ongoing development of St. Mary's Island.
It's great and the residents and visitors love it, and Medway Liberal Democrats applaud it. A rainbow crossing for LBGT+ is a great idea and really different from this one outside the school.
ENDS