City’s response to rainbow crosswalk being painted in error
Cambridge, Ontario. May 17, 2023 – Last evening, a company contracted by the City was engaged in routine street painting in the Downtown Galt area of Cambridge. During the maintenance work an error occurred where the rainbow/pride crosswalk in support of the 2SLGBTQ+ community was painted over with white paint. This situation came as a surprise to both staff and Council and is in no way reflective of how the City feels about the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Regardless of responsibility, we are deeply sorry that this has occurred.
Unfortunately, the timing of this incident coincides with an important day in the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Today marks the 19th International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia which is about raising awareness of violence, discrimination, and repression of 2SLGBTQ+ communities worldwide. Days like today provide an opportunity to act and engage in dialogue with the media, policymakers, and our community. The City of Cambridge is committed to protecting and advancing 2SLGBTQ+ rights. It is with genuine remorse and reflection that we want to acknowledge how harmful the timing of this situation could be to some individuals.
The contracted company, Pavement Marking division of Guild Electric Ltd., will begin work tonight to restore the rainbow crosswalk at no cost to the City. This restoration is weather-dependent, forecasted cold temperatures may cause delay, however the company is looking for ways to mitigate this and rectify the situation as quickly as possible.
The City of Cambridge is committed to creating an inclusive community free from discrimination and prejudice. As we look forward to celebrating Pride month in June, we will use today as an opportunity to reflect on our role in preventing situations like this from happening in the future. In the meantime, the City is pleased to refresh our rainbow crosswalk to demonstrate our continued support and acceptance for the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Cambridge and sees this as an opportunity to continue to learn and grow as an organization.
Media Contact:
Julie Kalbfleisch
Director of Communications
For more information about the City and its services, visit www.cambridge.ca. For accessibility accommodations, please contact accessibility@cambridge.ca. To opt out of the news release distribution, email corpcomm@cambridge.ca.
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