City of Cornwall Unveils Rainbow Crosswalk in Support of Inclusion and Diversity

The City of Cornwall has officially unveiled a permanent rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of Pitt and First Streets in the heart of the downtown core. The colourful installation stands as a vibrant and lasting symbol of inclusion, pride, and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

"This crosswalk, a symbol of unity and inclusion, is long overdue," said Mayor Justin Towndale. "We want Cornwall to be a place where people feel welcome, where they feel seen and respected. There is no room for hate or exclusion here."

The crosswalk was developed in partnership with Diversity Cornwall, a local organization that has long advocated for equity and visibility for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents. Its installation is aligned with the City’s Strategic Plan, which outlines goals of strengthening community well-being, fostering a sense of belonging, and enhancing public spaces to reflect the values of the people who live here.

“Diversity Cornwall is thrilled to participate in the unveiling of a new rainbow crosswalk downtown Cornwall! This is something that our members have been advocating for a few years now and we are ecstatic to see it come to fruition,” said Liz Quenville, President of the Board of Directors for Diversity Cornwall. “This is more than just a colourful crosswalk, it is a symbol of our community's commitment to promoting diversity, inclusion, and acceptance of the 2SLGBTQ+ folks in our region, and of the hard work that our community has done over the years to advance 2SLGBTQ+ rights.”

The rainbow crosswalk joins a growing movement of municipalities across Canada that are embracing inclusive public art to signal their commitment to human rights and social progress. Beyond its visual impact, the crosswalk is meant to serve as a daily reminder that inclusion is a shared responsibility.

Looking ahead, the City plans to continue investing in initiatives that promote diversity and equity across its policies, services, and public spaces. Future efforts include community consultations, inclusive training for staff, and the continued support of local partnerships that advance belonging for all residents.