Transport for London (TfL) and Siemens installed for the first time ‘Pride’ pedestrian traffic signals reflecting sexual diversity on roads near Trafalgar Square as part of the capital’s ‘Pride in London’ festival.
As part of the recent Pride in London celebrations that took place between June 10-26, TfL and Siemens temporarily replaced around 50 pedestrian traffic signals close to Trafalgar Square with new diversity images. The familiar green walking symbols feature either green gender related symbols or a new ‘holding hands’ design. The traffic signals have been designed to show TfL’s support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT+) diversity in London, and were inspired by a similar set of traffic signals that were produced in Vienna last year. Siemens, which was awarded the traffic signals supply and maintenance contracts for North and North East London by TfL in 2014, has installed the new traffic signals free of charge.
There will be seven special designs to represent LGBT+ relationships, including a holding hands symbol and the widely recognized transgender symbol. The unique traffic signals have been designed and approved inhouse by OUTbound, TfL’s LGBT+ staff network. TfL has been recognized as an official Pride in London partner, following several years of successful collaboration with the organizers of the festival. TfL has already undertaken several different initiatives to highlight the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the capital, including creating a rainbow-wrapped bus, taxi, DLR (Docklands Light Railway) train and pedestrian crossing.
“One of the greatest things about this city is our differences, and every Londoner should be proud of who they are,” said Sadiq Khan, the new Mayor of London. “I am very proud of our LGBT+ community here, and I am looking forward to working closely with them as their Mayor. Our thoughts and prayers are of course still with the families and friends of the victims of the hideous recent attack in Orlando. These new signals show that we stand shoulder to shoulder with them, and display the tolerance and celebration of difference in our city.”
Tom MacMorran, general manager of Siemens’ traffic operations, commented, “We’re delighted to have been able to support TfL with the manufacture and installation of these special signal designs. Diversity and inclusivity is very important to us and our employees, and this is a great example of where simple ideas can have a significant impact. We join TfL in sending our thoughts to those affected by the Orlando events.”
Alison Camps, director of Pride in London, said, said, “It’s fantastic that London is a city so keen to celebrate Pride that even traffic lights can be used. This small symbol is a big gesture from the Mayor of London and TfL, and we’re delighted to have their support. These lights are a perfect display that our city recognizes each and every one of us for who we are.”
