Lincoln has installed rainbow-coloured benches in different parks around town as symbols of diversity and inclusion in the community.
“I truly hope that residents and visitors of Lincoln will enjoy these beautiful rainbow benches that are symbols of a welcoming and diverse community,” said Mayor Sandra Easton. “The first priority objective in our council priorities is to improve social and economic inclusion, and through these benches we are providing visual symbols of our dedication to inclusivity for all."
The rainbow colouring on the benches are meant to represent the rainbow flag, a symbol of LGBTQ pride, celebration and inclusivity.
“We want to ensure Lincoln is a community where everyone feels welcome, at all times,” said Mike Kirkopoulos, Lincoln's chief administrative officer. “This is just one step the Town is taking as part of our commitment to making Lincoln a welcoming, inclusive and accessible community.”
He said the choice of rainbow-themed benches aligns with what other municipalities in Ontario were already doing. Communities like Durham and Port Perry have installed similarly painted benches, and many municipalities across Niagara and the province have installed rainbow crosswalks.
“We see them as symbolic of what we are and what we aspire to be as a welcoming and inclusive community,” Kirkopoulos said.
The benches were ordered last year and arrived in time to install in spring of 2021. They were funded as part of Lincoln’s regular asset/park furnishings acquisitions through the annual operating budget.
The benches can be found at Angelina Prokich Park, Campden Parkette, Lincoln Public Library - Moses. F Rittenhouse Branch and at Jordan Hollow Park.
- Moosa Imran, Local Journalism Initiative, Grimsby Lincoln News
