Town of Oakville installs first-ever rainbow crosswalks across town

Pride Month is underway in the Town of Oakville, where new rainbow crosswalks are being installed to celebrate the town’s diversity and our strong commitment to ongoing efforts that support inclusion.

Earlier today, Mayor Rob Burton was joined by Councillors Ray Chisholm and Cathy Duddeck, and CAO Jane Clohecy to commemorate the official unveiling of the crosswalk in Kerr Village, located at the intersection of Lakeshore Road and Kerr Street. The remaining crosswalks located on Lakeshore Road at Navy Street and Lakeshore Road at Bronte Road will be installed in the coming days.

“My Council colleagues and I are thrilled that this project has moved forward and that installations are under way on our rainbow crosswalks,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “These crosswalks will serve as a permanent symbol of the town’s commitment to diversity and inclusion while demonstrating solidarity with members of the LGBTQ2+ and BIPOC communities. We hope that these colourful landmarks represent how far we’ve come together as a community, and our ongoing pledge to making all feel welcome.”

A number of requests from students and community members were received by staff to introduce rainbow crosswalks to the town’s streetscapes as a gesture of support for LGBTQ2+ community members, while showcasing the town’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Following consultation with these groups and research on design, town staff used a longitudinal design style for the crosswalks, featuring Pride flag colours, with the addition of black and brown stripes to represent Oakville’s diversity.

“Each and every person deserves to be treated with kindness, dignity and respect; to have their voice heard and feel valued as an important member of our community,” said CAO Jane Clohecy. “These crosswalks symbolize acceptance, inclusion and diversity. They represent, in a visual way, our continued commitment to break down the barriers experienced by the most marginalized members of our community.”

The rainbow crosswalks are constructed of preformed thermal plastic that will help withstand the elements and consistent usage.

To learn more about the town’s commitment to inclusion, including the 2021 Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, visit our Accessibility and Inclusion page.