Sandwell Valley unveils rainbow crossing to celebrate diversity
An eye-catching rainbow crossing and several rainbow benches have been unveiled at Sandwell Valley Country Park to celebrate diversity and send a message of love, hope and inclusivity.
The colourful pedestrian crossing is located on the hill leading to Sandwell Park Farm on Salters Lane.
It incorporates the traditional rainbow Pride flag to represent the LGBQT+ community, with a chevron of black and white stripes to represent people of colour, as well as blue, pink and white for transgender people.
The white also symbolises those who have been lost to HIV/AIDS.
Deputy Mayor of Sandwell and chair of the council’s equalities committee, Councillor Richard Jones welcomed the crossing's installation as a way to increase awareness and make it clear that Sandwell is a place of tolerance and respect for people of all backgrounds.
“We want to show wider support for our diverse communities in Sandwell and make it clear that everyone is welcome here," he said.
"This is a brilliant location, it’s iconic and a good reflection of where we live.”
Sandwell Council leader, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael added: “Sandwell is proud to be in step with many other towns and cities around the UK and the world that have installed similar crossings to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community and all those facing discrimination.”
