Hounslow Council has installed a Rainbow Junction in Chiswick Road, consisting of four separate crossings in the colours of the progress pride flag.
Published: Friday, 3rd February 2023
Rainbow Junction, where Chiswick High Road meets Annandale Rd and Turnham Green Terrace, is revealed at the start of both LGBT+ History month and Football vs Homophobia month of action and is a vivid demonstration of the Council’s commitment to the rights of the borough’s LGBT+ community.
The idea was the brainchild of West London Queer Project (WLQP), who the Council have worked with over the past year during Pride 2022, and in the development of a new Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion strategy.
The Council have also supported WLQP’s work on wellbeing and social connection through Thriving Communities funding.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, commented:
“Hounslow is a borough where everyone is welcome regardless of sexual orientation or identity. WLQP have grown from a small group of friends to a borough wide organisation of more than 5000 members in under a year; a clear indication of the need for our LGBT+ community to have a voice, recognition, and support.”
Left to Right on left side of crossing – Marcus Gayle (Brentford FC Ambassador), musician Harry Judd, Leader of Hounslow Council - Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, WLQP Founder - Aubrey Crawley. Right side of crossing – broadcaster Clare Balding and Alice Arnold, broadcaster Nicki Chapman. In background: Cllr Ranjit Gill (Chiswick Gunnersbury) and Ollie Saunders from Chiswick Flower Market. Photo: Anna Kunst
Aubrey Crawley, founder of WLQP commented:
“We are delighted to continue a successful association with the Council and celebrate these important landmarks in such a public way.
“WLQP are also working with Brentford Football Club, as part of their support of Football vs Homophobia’s month of action, with skills sessions for the LGBT+ community and further supportive activity before their home game against Crystal Palace on 18 February.”
Hounslow Council will also be hosting a special event on the afternoon of 10 February, from 1.30pm-4pm at Hounslow House. Art - Behind the Lens will feature a fascinating mix of artists, media editors, writers and Council staff discussing issues associated with real-life experiences of LGBT+ people past and present.
Book Here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lgbt-history-month-art-behind-the-lens-tickets-519764669117
