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Rainbow crosswalk celebrates diversity in the RMWB

Last Updated Jul 26, 2017 at 1:48 pm MDT

PHOTO. Fort McMurrays first rainbow crosswalk runs across Hardin Street at the intersection of Biggs avenue. Melanie Walsh. AFTERNOON NEWS ANCHOR.

Fort McMurray is earning more stripes when it comes to being diverse.

A rainbow crosswalk has been painted across Hardin Street near Biggs Avenue.

The idea for this project gained momentum following a presentation to council last month by representatives from Regional Advisory Committee on Inclusion, Diversity and Equality (RACIDE) and Pride YMM.

“We’re proud to be a diverse, inclusive and welcoming community,” said Mayor Melissa Blake. “Diversity is our strength and this rainbow crosswalk celebrates that!”

Manager of Community and Corporate Relations at Waypoints, Jason Beck was excited to see the revamped crosswalk.

 “The symbolic nature of the crosswalk being turning into a pride crosswalk, I cannot tell you or express to you just how that made me feel as an openly gay man,” said Beck. “There has been a lot of debate of this as a waste of money but for our community this is definitely a step in the right direction of feeling like we are included and a part of here.”

With the installation of the permanent rainbow crosswalk, the municipality joins a growing list of communities across the  country that have introduced the colourful crosswalks in advance of local Pride celebrations.

Pride YMM will be hosting a family friendly event on Aug. 26, at Jubilee plaza.