By Gretchen Webster

WESTPORT — A “Rainbow Crosswalk” was dedicated Wednesday as a permanent symbol of inclusion and acceptance in Westport.

“By dedicating this crosswalk on National Coming Out Day, Westport is sending a clear and resounding message to all individuals on their journey of self-realization: You are seen, recognized, fully supported and welcomed in our community,” said Brian McGunagle, the founder of Westport Pride, which spearheaded plans for the multi-colored crosswalk at Jesup Road and Taylor Place. 

Coming Out Day, organized by the LGBTQ community nationally, highlights support for people “coming out” publicly about their lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or other queer identity.

The Rainbow Crosswalk was installed Oct. 2 as a permanent reminder that Westport is an accepting town, McGunagle said. A temporary crosswalk had been installed at the downtown intersection at the beginning of Pride Month in June, but has been replaced after showing signs of wear and tear. Both the temporary and permanent rainbow crosswalks were paid for by donors.

More than $36,000 was raised from individuals, families and local businesses to fund the permanent crosswalk, McGunagle said. “Their unwavering support reflects our shared commitment to fostering a diverse and welcoming community in Westport.” 

Other speakers at the dedication ceremony included state Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, D-Westport, who said he was proud to be “supporting unity, equity and celebration” in Westport, which he called “an inclusive community.”

And state Rep. Dominique Johnson, D-Norwalk/Westport, spoke about laws being adopted across the country that limit freedom of choice for many people. “We need you,” she said, calling for support from the group of about 40 attending the ceremony.

The state representatives also presented a state citation applauding Westport for its atmosphere of inclusion.

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker said she was grateful for the work over a four-year period that culminated in the crosswalk installation, citing McGunagle and members of Westport Pride, and by Public Works Director Peter Ratkieowich, who Tooker said “was behind this 150 percent.”

The crosswalk is a symbol that everyone in the Westport community “is respected, valued and cherished,” the first selectwoman said.

The ceremony closed with a blessing by the Rev. Dylan Mello of Christ and Holy Trinity Church, who called the new rainbow crosswalk “a beacon of love and acceptance, and a symbol of unity. May the crosswalk be where prejudice fades into oblivion,” he said. 

Freelance writer Gretchen Webster, a Fairfield County journalist and journalism teacher for many years, was editor of the Fairfield Minuteman newspaper for 10 years and teaches journalism at Southern Connecticut State University.