Mardi Gras Parade Excludes Activist Float
In a significant move leading up to the 2024 Sydney Mardi Gras, the activist group Pride in Protest was excluded from the parade. This decision came less than 24 hours before the event, primarily due to concerns raised over a social media post that labeled a Jewish float as “pro-genocide.”
Mardi Gras Controversy: Exclusion of Activist Float
The Mardi Gras Chief Executive, Jesse Matheson, communicated with Pride in Protest via email on Friday morning. He requested the group to delete their Instagram post, which criticized the Jewish float known as Dayenu. The statement was brought to the attention of the Mardi Gras organization after receiving complaints.
Background on the Float and Group
- Group Name: Pride in Protest
- Float Name: Dayenu
- Date of Exclusion: February 28, 2024
- Mardi Gras Start Time: 7:30 PM (February 28, 2024)
Dayenu had initially withdrawn from this year’s Mardi Gras due to safety concerns following an attack in Bondi. However, they later confirmed their participation again. Matheson stated that accusations made against this float caused serious concerns regarding conformity with the event’s code of conduct.
Code of Conduct and Response
According to Mardi Gras rules, harassment, discrimination, and bullying of fellow participants is strictly prohibited. Matheson emphasized that Pride in Protest’s lack of response to requests for compliance led to their exclusion from the event.
Pride in Protest’s spokesperson, Jean Maxine, argued that the communication from Mardi Gras was unreasonable. The request for a rapid response was sent during working hours to a member engaged in medical duties, causing delays in their reply.
Impact on Community Relations
The spokesperson for Dayenu expressed that they were “deeply offended” by the accusations made by Pride in Protest. They noted that the term “Zionist” was improperly used to target the Jewish community. The group called for understanding and respect among different community members.
Supporters of Pride in Protest condemned their exclusion as censorship, while others welcomed Mardi Gras’s enforcement of its rules. The day after their removal, Pride in Protest organized a protest march from Town Hall to Hyde Park.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between different factions within the parade and underscores the need for dialogue about inclusivity and conduct among all participants in the Sydney Mardi Gras.
Police Presence at Mardi Gras
As the parade approaches, the New South Wales Police plan to implement a high-visibility operation. They will ensure safety during the event, with no immediate threats reported to date. This year’s parade will mark a significant moment in Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ history, as it evolves and responds to diverse community voices.
