Sydney to have permanent rainbow crossing in iconic gay district

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Sydney is set to have a permanent rainbow crossing in its iconic gay district. Getting a rainbow crossing has been an uphill battle for activists, however, with an original rainbow crossing unceremoniously painted over back in 2013.

“Our beautiful Oxford Street rainbow crossing became a global sensation in 2013 and it was devastating when it was removed with no warning in the middle of the night,” said Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

The crossing was painted over by the state government. In protest, James ‘Breko’ Brechney founded the DIY Rainbow movement. He encouraged angry Sydney-siders to put up their own rainbow crossings in chalk around Sydney.

“I’m so happy and excited that a new Rainbow Crossing is coming to Taylor Square,” he said. “Credit to the City of Sydney for investing in our LGTBQI community and this is a great location next to the Rainbow Flag… I am really excited for this Rainbow Crossing and hope all parties are really invested in keeping it for years to come.”

“The crossing will be reviewed after six months by the RMS (Roads and Maritime Services),” added the Mayor, “and if it has proved to be as safe as we hope it will be, then we will be able to keep it there permanently.

“I am excited that we are so close to achieving the outcome we have worked so hard behind the scenes to achieve – the rainbow crossing returned as a permanent pride artwork in Sydney.

“Not only will this crossing be a colourful celebration of our LGBTQI community but it will also be a trial of new sensors to give pedestrians as much crossing time as possible.”

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