World Pride/Twitter Rainbow crosswalks are here to stay in Toronto

In advance of World Pride, taking place June 20 to 29 in Toronto, two rainbow-coloured crosswalks have been installed in the LGBTTIQQ2SA* village near Church and Wellesley Streets — and they're there to stay.

Located at the intersections of Church and Alexander, and Church and Isabella, these crosswalks will be "permanent additions to the neighbourhood," announced a press release today. The crosswalks were agreed upon in a 40-2 vote by Toronto city council in February, with Mayor Rob Ford and his brother, Doug Ford, the only two opposing.

The rainbow has long been considered the symbol of gay pride, ever since it was first created in flag form by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978, reports Time magazine.

Residents of the neighbourhood were more than welcoming of the colourful additions, which match many street signs in the area, as well as local art and the 250 banners celebrating World Pride for the duration of the celebrations.

Other cities that have installed rainbow crosswalks previously include San Francisco and Vancouver.

Check out these shots of the rainbow crosswalks below: