Officials in the Massachusetts town of Swampscott angered many residents last week when they announced two rainbow crosswalks were “restriped” due to “regularly scheduled maintenance.”
“The Town recognizes the significance these crosswalks have held for members of our community and appreciates the generosity and spirit behind their original installation,” read a statement from the official town Facebook account.
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“We want to be clear that this routine maintenance work does not reflect any change in the Town’s unyielding commitment to supporting and welcoming our LGBTQIA+ residents, families, and visitors. Swampscott remains committed to being an inclusive and welcoming community for all.”
But some residents didn’t buy it.
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“Routine maintenance doesn’t require painting over colors in black,” wrote resident Katie Murphy Arrington. “The town’s response is unacceptable.”
“Our gorgeous crosswalks are more than colorful streets—they represent visibility, inclusivity, and the right for everyone to feel seen, safe, and accepted,” Arrington added. “Painting them black wasn’t an accident; it took time, thought, and resources. When symbols of inclusion are erased, we have to ask what message that sends to the very communities they were meant to welcome.”
Arrington then encouraged others who felt the same way to reach out to town leadership, declaring, “Let’s continue to advocate for a community where everyone feels welcome, respected, and represented.”
On Monday, the town released another statement saying that leaders recognized the concerns and “understand the importance these markings hold for members of our community.”
“We remain unyielding in our commitment to ensuring Swampscott is a welcoming and inclusive community for all,” the statement said, adding that the town is “reviewing the policies and procedures surrounding roadway markings, including those supported through private donations, to ensure there is a clear and consistent process moving forward.”
They also invited residents to an October 21 Select Board meeting to participate in further discussion.
In the meantime, a GoFundMe set up to restore the rainbow crosswalks has raised $2,945 as of this writing toward a $5000 goal.
“The rainbow crosswalks were loved by people in town, and they meant something especially important to LGBTQ+ community members,” the fundraiser explains. “Those crosswalks helped people feel that the town supported them and welcomed them. Now that they have been covered over, many people are feeling that support has been taken away.”
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