City of Phoenix

The rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and Portland Street is next to some of Phoenix’s most active LGBTQ+ organizations.

A rainbow crosswalk in downtown Phoenix is looking brighter after the colors were refreshed ahead of this weekend’s block party.

The rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and Portland Street is next to some of Phoenix’s most active LGBTQ+ organizations. 

This Sunday will mark the second-annual block party to support and spotlight diverse queer communities. Organized by Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari, the event will feature music, performances and a runway contest, along with food trucks, face painting and a bike ride. A resource fair will include health care providers and community groups. 

There’s no admission fee, and the block party will run from 3 to 8 p.m. at Portland Parkway Park at 10 W. Portland St. in Phoenix.

The city has another rainbow crosswalk located at Seventh and Glenrosa Avenues in the Melrose District. Materials, installation and maintenance for the rainbow portions of both crosswalks is covered by Phoenix Pride Community Foundation, one-n-ten and Aunt Rita’s Foundation.

The following information was provided by Mike Fornelli, executive director of Phoenix Pride:

"Each of the six colors in the rainbow flag has a specific meaning, and they are as relevant to our community today as they have ever been:

• Red is for LIFE — the blood that flows through all of our veins regardless of our skin color.
• Orange is for HEALING
• Yellow is for SUNLIGHT that sustains all life.
• Green is for NATURE
• Blue is for HARMONY
• and Violet is for SPIRIT that is alive in each and everyone of us."