Back in 2013, the City of Vancouver first installed a rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of Bute and Davie.
In addition, other cities in British Columbia have followed suit, bearing the bright stripes in proud support of the LGBT community; however, the colourful walkways have been a source of contention throughout the Lower Mainland.
Now, the City of Surrey is joining the colourful group. Specifically, plans include painting a $8,500 rainbow crosswalk at City Centre, but not everyone is thrilled.
Of course, many residents are proud to have the colourful splash. Others, however, feel that the crosswalk may not be worth the expenditure.
RELATED: Rainbow Crosswalk Brings Pride To New Westminster
“City officials say a regular “zebra” crosswalk costs $2,000 and has a three- to five-year lifespan, while the rainbow crosswalk will cost $8,500 and should last for five years,” reports the Surrey Leader.
Furthermore, Mayor Linda Hepner made the decision to instal the crosswalk independently of city council. As a result, she has received a great deal of criticism for going forward without consultation.
Rainbow Crosswalk in Surrey
With that being said, the City of Vancouver moved to ban conversion therapy on June 6th. Wikipedia describes conversion therapy as “the pseudoscientific practice of trying to change an individual’s sexual orientation using psychological or spiritual interventions.”
Owing this movement, as well as many like it, British Columbia is making significant strides toward supporting an open and inclusive society. So, many people feel the crosswalks are an important sign of support for a community that has suffered so deeply.
Many cities and municipalities have installed rainbow crosswalks across British Columbia. Coquitlam was the latest to do so, creating one on March 28th.
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