Rainbow Crossing Paint Restoration on March 13

City Councilors, public arts commissioners, and community to refresh Mayor Gregory S. Pettis Rainbow Crossing

CATHEDRAL CITY — The ever-popular and high-profile Mayor Gregory S. Pettis Rainbow Crossing will receive a facelift of sorts on Saturday, March 13 when members of the  City Council, public arts commissioners, and members of the community gather to restore it.

Mayor Pettis was the longest-serving member of the City Council and the first openly gay candidate to run for political office in the Coachella Valley.  Over his many years in public office, he helped pass legislation that enhanced the civil rights and protections for the LGBTQ community.

Mayor Pettis was an advocate for the installation of the Rainbow Crossing in 2016 as part of Cathedral City LGBT Days.  The Rainbow Crossing was the first of its kind in the Coachella Valley that symbolizes the city’s celebration of diversity.  It was dedicated in his honor after his death in January 2019.  Shortly after, the Hollister Co., the global teen clothing company conducted a photo shoot with its models promoting their strong support for GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) at the Crossing.

The crossing was heralded as an important step to recognize the historic progress in the civil rights movement.

Consisting of six colored stripes, The Rainbow Crossing was designed in accordance to the Rainbow Flag created by San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker in 1978 including the color red to symbolize “life,” orange for “healing,” yellow for “sunlight,” green for “nature,” blue for “harmony,” and purple for “spirit.”

Painting will take place from 10 a.m. to noon.

The City Council will provide drinks and pizza for the painters.