Mardi Gras Excludes Pride in Protest Float over ‘Offensive’ Posts
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras recently made the decision to exclude the group Pride in Protest from its parade. This action stems from a series of inflammatory social media posts directed at the Jewish LGBTQ organization, Dayenu.
Mardi Gras Takes a Stand
Pride in Protest, a grassroots political organization, faced backlash after posting derogatory statements about Dayenu. The posts suggested that Dayenu’s withdrawal from the parade, citing safety concerns, was merely a “lobby stunt.” One post referred to the organization as falling for “fake Zionist tears.”
The Mardi Gras organisers responded by issuing a formal warning to Pride in Protest, indicating that the group had violated the parade’s guidelines. They set a 5 PM deadline for compliance.
CEO Jesse Matheson on Decision
Mardi Gras CEO Jesse Matheson explained that the removal of Pride in Protest aims to maintain community safety. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing an inclusive and safe environment for all participants. Matheson noted that the offensive nature of Pride in Protest’s posts breached the values upheld by Mardi Gras.
Dayenu’s Background
Dayenu has a long history with Mardi Gras, having participated for 25 years. However, the organization decided to withdraw from this year’s parade due to safety concerns, particularly after a terrorist attack during a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach in December, which resulted in 15 fatalities.
Despite their withdrawal, Dayenu plans to march in the 2026 parade following discussions with Mardi Gras and the New South Wales Police.
Community Reactions
- Dayenu expressed being “deeply offended and hurt” by the derogatory comments made by Pride in Protest.
- Dayenu clarified that they are not a Zionist organization and feel targeted by the language used in the posts.
- Pride in Protest labeled the actions of Mardi Gras as “authoritarian censorship,” asserting their right to voice criticism.
Calls for Reassessment
Pride in Protest advocates for reconsideration of the decision by the Mardi Gras board. They argue for a genuinely inclusive pride celebration that allows for critical dialogue on important issues.
Independent MP for Sydney, Alex Greenwich, expressed that the posts were inappropriate and highlighted the need for a safe environment for all participants. He believes that Mardi Gras should focus on its mission of inclusivity rather than internal disputes.
