Archive link: https://web.archive.org/web/20240814200030/https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/rainbow-walkway-installed-at-the-university-of-guelph-9349410

Rainbow walkway installed at the University of Guelph

Painted flag ‘sends a strong message' of inclusion on campus

In advance of arriving students, University of Guelph officials have overseen the installation of a rainbow walkway.

A Progress Pride flag was painted on the path from Winegard Walk to the McLaughlin Library. Its installation was announced in a post on the school’s website Wednesday morning.

“This pride flag sends a strong message that U of G is committed to the path to equality for everyone on our campus. The rainbow walkway is part of a broader strategy to continue making our campus more inclusive,” said Indira Naidoo-Harris, associate vice-president of diversity and human rights, in the post. “It’s a colourful reminder that LGBTQ2IA+ individuals are celebrated at U of G.

“The rainbow walkway says that we all have a part to play in creating a welcoming environment for everyone.”

Guelph was home to two rainbow crosswalks, but this is the first rainbow walkway. There’s a privately-owned one outside Stone Road Mall, and a municipal crosswalk at the intersection of Norfolk Street and Waterloo Avenue.

The university’s installation was funded by its ‘Highest Priority fund,’ through which individual donors contribute to things such as student assistance, activities and set strategic plan initiatives.