Sydney’s rainbow crossing updated to Progress Pride Flag

In a step forward for inclusivity and visibility, the rainbow crossing at Sydney’s Taylor Square has been updated to the Progress Pride Flag.

The changes were unveiled in advance of Pride Month, which began on June 1, marking the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots.

Pride Month is a recognition of those earlier fights for liberation and a commemoration of the resilience and achievements of the LGBTIQA+ community.

The changes were initiated by City of Sydney councillor Adam Worling, whose motion in October last year called for the current rainbow crossing to be updated.

“I love the mighty Rainbow crossing on Bourke Street at Taylor Square,” he told City Hub at the time. “I also see the rainbow path at Equality Green in Prince Alfred Park most days of the week.” 

“Though what is missing in these two locations, I believe, is the representation of our entire LGBTIQA+ community in all its brilliant diversity.” 

The Progress Pride Flag is an update on Gilbert Barker’s original 1978 rainbow flag design that has become synonymous with the LGBTQ community, designed by non-binary artist and graphic designer Daniel Quasar in 2018. 

The black and brown of the chevron on the Progress Pride Flag represent Indigenous people and people of colour, whilst the white, pink and blue represents transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse people. 

Speaking to City Hub on the updated crossing, Cr Worling said, “What I love about it is that it’s bringing the spotlight to a more inclusive LGBTQI community, also covering those people living with HIV and those who have left us.”

He also brought attention to the additional five colours – black, brown, pale pink and blue, and white – in the arrow shape.

“It’s talking about progress – the progress we still need to make.”

This week will also see a formal state apology made in NSW Parliament for laws against homosexual acts.