Activist Float Barred from Mardi Gras Parade
An activist float has been barred from participating in the Sydney Mardi Gras parade, set to take place on February 29, 2026. The group, Pride in Protest, was excluded after failing to respond to a formal warning from organizers regarding an inflammatory social media post.
Incident Overview
The controversy emerged shortly before the parade when Pride in Protest characterized a Jewish float, Dayenu, as “pro-genocide.” This statement prompted complaints from the community, leading Mardi Gras Chief Executive Jesse Matheson to intervene. An email sent at 11 am on February 28 requested that Pride in Protest remove the offensive post.
Violation of Code of Conduct
- Pride in Protest did not respond to the email or subsequent communications.
- Mardi Gras’ code expressly prohibits harassment and discrimination among participants.
- Dayenu had withdrawn from the parade citing safety concerns but later decided to rejoin.
Dayenu’s Reaction
A spokesperson for Dayenu expressed that they were “deeply offended and hurt” by the accusations made by Pride in Protest. They clarified that Dayenu is not a Zionist organization and found the term inaccurately derogatory.
Previous Communications
- In November 2023, Mardi Gras issued a letter advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Dayenu raised questions regarding their lack of prior consultation about the statement.
Response from Pride in Protest
After being notified of their exclusion, Pride in Protest publicly criticized the decision. They argued that the email request for action was unreasonable, given the time constraints.
Official Statements
Matheson stated that this action was not about suppressing free speech but maintaining a respectful environment for all participants. He highlighted that the group’s conduct contradicted the agreed terms for the event.
Community Reactions
The decision has sparked further debate, with NSW Greens MP Amanda Cohn labeling it a “censorship” act. Meanwhile, Pride in Protest plans to hold a demonstration on the day of the parade, starting at 3:30 pm from Town Hall.
Looking Ahead
The 48th annual Sydney Mardi Gras will commence at 7:30 pm, with NSW Police deploying a substantial presence to ensure the safety of the event. As the parade approaches, discussions about conduct and inclusivity within the LGBTQIA+ community continue to unfold.
