The Chronicle received a variety of responses to its question (on Facebook) about the Town of Oliver approving a “rainbow” crosswalk on Fairview Road.
The crosswalk, which has been implemented in many communities, recognizes inclusion and acceptance for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual and questioning (LGBTQ) community.
Years ago this would have sparked hot debate among councils of the day, but now these resolutions are passed unanimously without a second thought.
How attitudes (and acceptance) have changed.
But there are still people who question these resolutions. Some flat out dislike gay and lesbians, while others simply believe taxpayers’ money should not be spent recognizing a certain segment of the population.
Oliver council appears to be in step with the times by simply acknowledging that it accepts and includes everyone, regardless of their sexual preference.
Just because someone is gay or lesbian does not make them less of a human being. Just think, the world could have been created where the majority of the population were gay, and those who were straight would be the minority.
Here are some of the comments we received on Facebook:
– “Honestly, I don’t agree the Town of Oliver accept that. Why hide it up by the school?”
– “I live in Gibbons, AB, and good for you Town of Oliver. A rainbow is wonderful to see after a storm. People need to get their heads out of the sand.”
– “I think it’s a great idea.”
– “What is the dollar figure attached to this? First to paint and then to maintain?” (The Town estimates it will cost $400 to $600 to implement the crosswalk.)
– “Depends on long-term cost.”
– “The one in Princeton served a purpose in identifying the narrow-minded homophobes.”
– “I believe awareness, acceptance and inclusion does make a difference.”
– “My son has autism. Can we have one out of puzzle pieces? If we are going to cater to one group, better be prepared to allow other special groups to have theirs too.”
– “This is for five groups (LGBTQ). Not making light of your child’s situation, but are there hate groups out there against your child? How many autistic children have been beaten or killed because of it? I hope you see a few differences.”
– “Waste of money.”
– “It’s an excellent idea. Regardless of cost to maintain. Honestly it’s one crosswalk. Locals could fundraise enough to repaint every year with a single bake sale . . . like get over yourself, people.”
– “OMG . . . why can’t people just live their lives in whatever way makes them happy? Why look for acceptance from everyone but themselves? A sidewalk won’t change anything.”
– “Why is this even a question, Chronicle? They’re doing something to help make more people feel welcome and accepted. But you’re asking if people think that’s okay? C’mon guys! And good for Oliver council. I wish they would do something like that where I live.”
