Burlington will ‘spread the love’ with rainbow walk

A rainbow road is coming to Burlington.

On Sept. 23, council unanimously approved a motion that will bring a rainbow crosswalk somewhere in the city’s Aldershot community before the 2020 Pride celebrations. The crosswalks are in recognition of Pride and inclusivity.

Similar crosswalks have been installed at municipalities around the country.

Coun. Lisa Kearns said the city was overwhelmed with the support the idea generated, with people requesting the crosswalks at about 15 different city intersections.

“We thought starting with one would be one step in the right direction towards genuine inclusivity across the city of Burlington. Since then, each and every ward has been reaching out,” said Kearns.

“The intent of this motion is to get one in Aldershot first, and then spread the love.”

Proponents of the crosswalks say they are a way to boldly show support for members of the community who tend to be at an increased risk.

Rainbow sidewalks in other Canadian communities have occasionally proved controversial — incidents of vandalism have been reported and some claim they may represent a safety hazard.