City of Darwin’s iconic rainbow crossing in the CBD is looking fresh and fabulous after a facelift overnight.
The refresh comes in time for the 2022 Pride Festival.
Starting next Thursday 23 June, the festival will see a range of events across the city, including the parade on Saturday 25 June. Fittingly, the parade will wind its way from Raintree Park and along the rainbow crossing at the intersection of Knuckey Smith Streets before ending in Civic Park.
Deputy Lord Mayor, Amye Un said Darwin was the city for people and the city of colour.
“That’s not just a tag line, it’s a promise,” Ms Un said.
“We honour all people, and everyone is welcome in Darwin.
“The rainbow crossing is a symbol of our sense of inclusion and it’s also become an Instagrammable opportunity.
“The colours are vibrant and it’s looking lovely after the facelift. And I don’t mind if the crossing pales in comparison to the glittering spectacle of the FIERCE Pride Parade on 25 June.
“I hope as many people come along to show their support for everyone in the parade and for 2022 Pride Festival,” Ms Un said.
The parade starts at 9am next Saturday.
Top End Pride Chair Amber Sayers-Hunt said since it was last upgraded in 2018, the crossing had begun to look a little tired.
“So, we thank the Lord Mayor and Councillors who supported our request, spoke passionately and voted unanimously for this fabulous makeover.
“This infrastructure is an important gesture from the city’s leaders to the LGBTIQA+ Community.
“Its prominent position serves as a daily reminder of our community’s love, our passion, our resilience, our strength, our compassion, our fight, and our FIERCEness.
“Darwin is the city of people and the city of colour! Bring on Pride Festival 2022,” Ms Sayers-Hunt said.
