LGBT in B.C.: Terrace and Masset join the rainbow crosswalk party

More B.C. cities are joining the rainbow connection.

Vancouver, Victoria, and Castlegar already have rainbow crosswalks and Prince Rupert has approved them.

Terrace just joined the rainbow conga line.

Inspired by Prince Rupert's decision, the city council of the northwestern B.C. city voted unanimously on July 13 to create a rainbow crosswalk to show support for LGBT people. A specific location for the crosswalk in downtown Terrace has yet to be determined.

In June, Masset on Haida Gwaii also voted to paint a rainbow crosswalk for their Pride Week, held from June 22 to 28.

In an interview with the CBC, village councillor Natanis LaBoucane said that the crosswalks go beyond just LGBT issues, as they help to create a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance for all people, particularly after a period during which a number of suicides took place in the area.

Although the rainbow crosswalks originated as symbols of the LGBT community, increased social acceptance also means a reduction of homophobia and transphobia, both of which can be used against people who aren't LGBT.