Rainbow Crosswalk Unveiled in Hillcrest

America's Finest City got its first-ever rainbow crosswalk to honor the history, culture, and importance of the LGBTQ+ community.

“This is far more than a crosswalk we are celebrating today, it’s a symbol of our community’s diversity, inclusion and activism,” Councilmember Chris Ward said.

The crosswalk has been years in the making, and the final design was a first for California, because Hillcrest's rainbow crosswalk included a transgender pride flag black and brown stripes to represent people of color, Ward's office said.

The crosswalk was made possible by the ongoing work of community members and organizations like the Hillcrest Business Association, San Diego Pride and Chris Ward’s office.

Anyone can stride across the crosswalk located at Normal Street and University Avenue -- the same location where the annual Pride Parade kicks off every year.

"For decades, our region’s largest civic event, San Diego Pride, has gathered our community at the intersection of Normal Street and University Avenue to showcase the LGBTQ movement's diversity, strength, and resilience," said Fernando Lopez, Executive Director of San Diego Pride. "It's humbling to be a part of Pride Plaza's development and beautification as an iconic space our community can be proud of in the heart of our home, Hillcrest."

“We are so lucky in San Diego County to have an incredibly powerful and strong LGBTQ+ community,” Supervisor Fletcher said. “I want to thank Councilmember Chris Ward for driving action to bring the rainbow-painted crosswalk to Hillcrest. This crosswalk symbolizes the road that’s been traveled by so many to ensure our LGBTQ+ community has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.”

The crosswalk was unveiled on Saturday with a celebration called, "Catwalk on the Crosswalk." Ward was joined by Mayor Kevin Faulconer, Assemblymember Todd Gloria, and California's Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins, among others.