Member's Resolution
Submitted by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua
Whereas, the City of Vaughan is dedicated to fostering a community that is diverse, welcoming and inclusive of everyone.
Whereas, the City has proclaimed Pride Week every year since 2003 and Pride Month since 2020, flown the rainbow flag during Pride Week and hosted official flag-raising ceremonies;
Whereas, Vaughan is one of Canada’s fastest growing and most diverse communities, and embraces all dimensions of diversity. As part of our commitment to advancing a culture of co-operation, in 2020, the City endorsed and adopted the Vaughan Inclusion Charter in support of the Inclusion Charter for York Region, a community initiative to create a fair and equal environment for all;
Whereas, at the Jan. 19, 2022, Diversity and Inclusion Task Force meeting, task force member Jumol Royes asked that the City consider installing a rainbow crosswalk at an appropriate location;
Whereas, Vaughan staff have identified that an initial Rainbow Crosswalk Pilot Project can be planned, executed and funded using existing budget;
It is therefore recommended:
1. That City staff execute a Rainbow Crosswalk Pilot Project on City Hall property with a completion date that coincides with a Pride flag-raising ceremony in June 2022, consistent with provincial COVID-19 health regulations;
2. That, further to the initial Rainbow Crosswalk Pilot Project, the administration prepare a report that explores other spaces and opportunities that speak to diversity and inclusion, and include a feasibility and financial impact analysis;
3. That City staff work with the appropriate community stakeholders to identify appropriate locations and other considerations, including safety and accessibility.