Petition launches to bring rainbow crossing to Tauranga to celebrate LGBTQ+ community

A petition has been launched in Tauranga, New Zealand, with the goal of installing a rainbow crosswalk in the city center to celebrate and support the local LGBTQ+ community. The initiative was spearheaded by Jasmine Te Aroha Pradissitto, a well-known rainbow community advocate and founder of the Tauranga Rainbow Project.

The Tauranga Rainbow Project is a local organization that aims to promote inclusivity and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in the Bay of Plenty region. Pradissitto, who is also a member of the Tauranga City Council's Community Advisory Committee, came up with the idea of installing a rainbow crosswalk in the city center as a visible symbol of support and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.

The petition, which was launched on Change.org in late March 2023, has already gained significant support from the local community and beyond. As of now, it has over 3,000 signatures, and the goal is to reach 5,000 signatures before presenting it to the Tauranga City Council.

The crosswalk would be installed at the intersection of 12th Avenue and Devonport Road, which is a high-traffic area and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The project is estimated to cost around $10,000, which will cover the cost of materials and installation.

The idea of installing rainbow crosswalks is not new; they have been installed in various cities around the world as a symbol of support and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. Some of the most famous ones are located in cities such as San Francisco, Toronto, and Amsterdam.

The installation of a rainbow crosswalk in Tauranga is expected to send a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance to the local community and visitors. It is also expected to raise awareness about the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community and promote dialogue and education around LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

The Tauranga Rainbow Project is working closely with the Tauranga City Council and local stakeholders to ensure that the project is implemented in a way that is inclusive, accessible, and safe for all members of the community. The project is also being supported by various local businesses and organizations, including the Tauranga Chamber of Commerce and the Bay of Plenty Pride Festival.

The installation of the rainbow crosswalk is just one of the many initiatives being undertaken by the Tauranga Rainbow Project to promote inclusivity and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in the Bay of Plenty region. Other initiatives include workshops, training sessions, and events aimed at raising awareness and promoting dialogue around LGBTQ+ issues.

The petition can be found on Change.org and is open for signatures until May 31, 2023. Anyone who wishes to support the project is encouraged to sign the petition and share it with their networks to help spread the word and raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity and acceptance for all members of the community.