A show of support to London's LGBTQ community could soon be painted across some of the city's streets.
The civic works committee voted unanimously Tuesday to paint two crosswalks rainbow colours in honour of the Pride London Festival.
"It's a great indicator that there is huge support on council for the LGBTQ community in general and diversity and inclusion more broadly," says Councillor Jesse Helmer.
Helmer and councillor Tanya Park brought the proposal forward. The pair suggested painting crosswalks at the intersections of Dundas St. and Ontario St. and Dufferin Ave. and Wellington St. The annual pride parade route starts and ends at those two intersections on the final day of the festival.
The Pride London Festival, now in its 22nd year, runs from July 14 to 24.
Several other Canadian cities including Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton already have rainbow-coloured crosswalks. However, not all are in place year-round.
The proposal goes to full council for final approval. Helmer is confident the showing of support will be similar to what was seen in committee.
"My colleagues are very reasonable, smart people and I think they've got a lot of love for the whole community. I think they are going to support it," says Helmer. "We will see what sort of discussions come up. There is some cost involved and I know everyone wants to be vigilant around the cost of things. I figure if we are going to paint the crosswalks white anyway, we might as well paint a couple of them rainbow."