The permanent transgender flag crossing in Sutton appeared in honour of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17).
In an initiative that celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17), Sutton Town Centre has received a permanent pedestrian crossing in the shape and colours of the transgender flag — the first of its kind in the UK. It comes two years after the UK’s first permanent rainbow crossing was installed in Herne Hill.
The transgender flag, first created in 1999, consists of the colours blue (for males), pink (for females), and white (for those who are transitioning, intersex, or identify as a neutral or undefined gender). According to the Sutton Council, the initiative represents “a visible celebration of Sutton’s transgender community and a sign of the inclusivity of the borough”. It is also part of a larger project to improve the town’s streets and make walking and cycling more appealing for locals, and can be found on the one-way system outside Asda.
Cllr Jake Short, Sutton Council’s Lead Member for Equalities, commented: “Until transgender people and other minority groups are able to live without fear of discrimination or hate, we must continue to demonstrate our support and stand with them to clearly demonstrate our commitment to eliminating transphobia.”
The town hopes that the rest of the UK takes inspiration from the new transgender flag crossing to introduce more permanent street artwork in support of the Trans community.
Learn more about the initiative here.