The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is famous for the sequins, stilettos, leather and lipstick that are worn with pride by many of the thousands of participants.
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It’s a spectacle and a celebration which, according to the official Mardi Gras website, exists primarily to “inspire the world to love each other by celebrating the power and beauty of diversity.”
Maitland should be proud that members of its community care enough about equality and respect to make the trek to Sydney or show other public support for this event.
It’s worth remembering that less than 40 years ago marchers in the first Mardi Gras were not applauded through the streets or celebrated on national television. They encountered harassment, arrests and beatings.
History is littered with examples where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people encountered discrimination, degradation and, basically, were treated as less-human than heterosexuals.
It’s encouraging to see society has moved towards accepting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights. Mardi Gras has done a great deal to raise the visibility of the LGBTI community and fan acceptance.
But there is still much work to do. Discrimination still exists in all forms. BeyondBlue research shows that GLBTI people are two to three times more likely to experience anxiety and depression. They are also at greater risk of suicide and self-harm.
While the feathers flutter, the sequins sparkle and the beat pumps all night long, remember the serious side to the celebration.
The key message is: It is never OK to make someone fear violence or discrimination because of who they are. It’s really none of your business.