A local woman has urged her council to eliminate four pedestrian crossings adorned in the colors of the transgender flag, arguing that they violate her rights as a Christian.
The road markings located at Tavistock Place and Marchmont Street in Bloomsbury, central London, were introduced by Camden Council in 2021.
Blessing Olubanjo, a resident of Camden, is contemplating legal action against what she perceives as unlawful political expression.
In response, the council described the crossings as “a visual statement to promote transgender awareness and serve as a reminder of the vibrant LGBTQ+ history and daily life in the Bloomsbury area and across Camden.”
As a member of the Christian Peoples Alliance Party, Ms. Olubanjo has sent a pre-action letter to the council, indicating her intention to initiate judicial review proceedings unless the crossings are either removed or repainted.
A judicial review would determine if the council adhered to the appropriate legal protocols and acted within its authority.
The council confirmed receipt of the letter and stated that it “completely rejects” her claims.
A spokesperson for the council remarked, “Camden is ‘no place for hate,’ and we have a strong and ongoing commitment to supporting every individual in our borough. We combat discrimination in all its forms and stand as allies to our transgender residents.”
The colorful crossings—featuring white, pink, and blue stripes, which symbolize the transgender community—were originally installed to commemorate Transgender Awareness Week in 2021. The council indicated that this painted crossing signifies a crucial step in supporting the LGBTQ+ community within public spaces.
Ms. Olubanjo contends that the crossings contravene equality and safety regulations and violate laws against local authorities engaging in political promotion.
Her case is being backed by the Christian Legal Centre, which argues that the crossings constitute a “publication” under the Local Government Act 1986, which prohibits councils from disseminating material that appears to advocate for a political party or a politically contentious viewpoint.
Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, stated: “This crossing concerns public safety and Christian liberty; it also pertains to the improper use of public funds for political campaigning. This crossing visually endorses a polarized ideology, installed by a public authority in violation of its legal responsibilities. This is not the function of local government.”
In her letter, Ms. Olubanjo also asserted that the crossings contravene the Public Sector Equality Duty due to existing risks posed to disabled and neurodivergent individuals.
Council documents from 2021 acknowledge that there had been “some concerns raised regarding the accessibility of colored crossings, especially for those with visual impairments.”
They noted that the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) expressed worries about “non-standard” crossings potentially causing confusion.
The council maintained, “Officers believe the crossing’s design is straightforward enough to address these concerns.”
The RNIB informed BBC London that “ninety-three percent of blind individuals have some level of sight. Black-and-white striped designs on pedestrian crossings provide a high level of contrast, which is vital for individuals with low vision who need to navigate safely when crossing streets. Colorful crossings may not always be recognized as designated crossing points, which poses specific challenges for guide dogs.”
