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First Rainbow Crosswalk opened
On Thursday June 1, students, teachers and invited guests gathered at Fernie Secondary School to celebrate the unveiling of the first Rainbow Crosswalk.
The project got City of Fernie council approval when teacher Janet Kuijt and students presented council with the request to paint the crosswalks at the school and downtown at Third Avenue and Fifth Street.
The celebration ceremony was conducted by Janet Kuijt and had speeches by dignitaries including recognition to our First Nations people, by School District No. 5 Superintendent Lynn Hauptman, Fernie Pride representative Sara Funk, Mayor Mary Giuliano and educators.
Students and adults wore colourful pride shirts, a rainbow ribbon was cut over the crosswalk and a huge rainbow cake was served. Lynn Hauptman said Fernie is the first in the school district to do this and she was pleased to be present for it.
“Congratulations to the students, administrators and teachers of Fernie Secondary School. The symbolism of the rainbow sidewalks will serve as a constant reminder that although we are created equal we are not created the same,” stated Mayor Giuliano.
“Each individual is unique and special and needs to be respected and shown consideration. As mayor, I am very proud that our school has brought this project forward and that by this movement students and adults will be more open minded, kind and considerate to one another and to everyone in general,” she added.
Photos courtesy Mayor Mary Giuliano
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