Newly painted rainbow crosswalk vandalized in Penticton
It wasn’t long before somebody defaced the new two-spirit rainbow crosswalk in Penticton.
The symbol of inclusion was painted at a pedestrian crosswalk on Power Street in Penticton, Wednesday, May 24. The next day there were black skids mark on the crosswalk.
“The initiative for this symbol of hope came from students at Queen's Park Elementary who showed leadership in requesting a tangible sign of support for diverse and inclusive communities,” according to a joint statement from Penticton Indian Band Chief Greg Gabriel, acting Mayor Helena Konanz and School District 67 chair James Palanio. “It's a reminder that children start from a place of acceptance. And that's a lesson for all of us.”
“Since the installation there have been many vile comments on social media that highlight the need to show support for all members of our community. For the rainbow crosswalk to be a true symbol there needs to condemnation of bullying and intolerance,” the statement says.
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