Councillor wants rainbow crossing in Offaly in solidarity with LGBT+ community

Edenderry Green Party Councillor Mark Hackett is calling for a rainbow crossing to be introduced in Offaly as an act of solidarity with LGBT+ people.

In a motion to be put before the June meeting of the council, Cllr Hackett will ask the council to introduce the crossing "in recognition of the marginalised position of members of the LGBT+ community".

Mark says: “Through my work on gender-based violence in public spaces I am becoming increasingly aware of how isolated and vulnerable LGBT+ people can feel. This crossing is a symbolic gesture, designed to raise awareness of the need for inclusiveness and safety, Our work as allies of LGBT+ people in Offaly must be proactive. Many people will be familiar with ‘rainbow crossings’ as there are many examples around the country. My motion is that we bring this visible reminder of inclusion and safety to Offaly.”

Christina Fitzharris, Coordinator at the Midlands LGBT+ Project says

"Offaly is one of the only counties left in Ireland without an annual pride parade or festival and it is imperative that we send messages of solidarity to our local LGBT+ people in Offaly that they are safe and welcome here, especially at this time when reported hate crime and hate crime related incidents have risen 23% in the past year. A rainbow crossing will help show support and allyship to our LGBT+ community as it has in many other counties across the country."

Mark concluded: “Of course, the crossing must adhere to road safety standards and again this work has been done for us in many successful examples in other counties. I hope for the full support of my vouncil colleagues in adopting this motion and that we will see a rainbow crossing in a suitable location in Offaly sooner than later”.