Rainbow crossing celebrates region’s diversity

A PERMAMENT rainbow pedestrian crossing has been unveiled today (December 1) in Geelong as a symbol of pride of the region’s diversity.

The rainbow crossing is located on Yarra Street, under the Westfield foyer and celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community.

The rainbow design chosen for the crossing is based on Valentino Vecchietti’s pride flag design and is the most current and inclusive flag to date.

Alongside the rainbow colours, the flag has the intersex and transgender flag integrated into it, as well as brown and black lines to represent all people of colour.

The need for a rainbow crossing in Geelong has been expressed by the community consistently over the last four years.

Planning was initiated at the launch of Geelong Rainbow Festival 2020, however stalled until 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

City of Greater Geelong Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken said the installation signified the the City of Greater Geelong’s commitment to the region’s diverse rainbow community.

“The rainbow crossing forms a vibrant and colourful representation of the City’s support for the local rainbow community,” he said.

“The installation of a permanent rainbow crossing is a part of the broader City strategy to be an inclusive local government.”

LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee member, Jen Walsh said the region’s LGBTQIA+ community was grateful for the City’s investment in the rainbow crossing.

“It is a powerful symbol of hope for all LGBTIQA+ people and their loved ones across the region,” they said.

“The colours represented by the progress flag indicate all City of Greater Geelong residents have the right to live as our authentic selves, and our LGBTIQA+ identities deserve to be celebrated.

“At a time when a lot of LGBTIQA+ people are doing it tough, this rainbow crossing is a strong sign of solidarity and strength.”