The largest LGBTQIA+ event is coming to Sydney next year and Northern Beaches Council is committed to celebrating diversity with local activities across the three-week spectacular.
Sydney is the first city in the southern hemisphere to be chosen to host the event from 17 February to 5 March, including the Mardi Gras Parade on 25 February 2023 making it the biggest tourism drawcard and city-wide celebration since the 2000 Olympics.
Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan is thrilled to be involved in the international event and said Council is unanimous in its commitment to inclusion, equity, and support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“What a year to be involved with this great initiative with the 2023 event celebrating 45 years of Mardi Gras, 50 years of Australian Pride and five years of marriage equality in Australia.
“Since the last Council meeting staff have done a tremendous job meeting with and discussing our involvement with key community members including the newly established Fusion Pride Northern Beaches, local surf lifesaving clubs Rainbow Beaches program and relevant State Government, public transport operators and out local chambers of commerce.
“The wheels are definitely in motion with a committed internal working group as well as a number of activations planned. We hope with more funding we can put on many more events and support local businesses who want to participate,” Mayor Regan said.
Council will roll out a number of activities to celebrate WorldPride 2023 including:
- Rainbow flags and banners across the peninsula
- $20k grant program to aid local businesses and organisations that wish to organise WorldPride related events and activities
- A temporary art installation in Manly
- Exhibitions in our libraries, Rainbow Storytimes for children, film screenings and author talks
In addition, Council has been exploring options with local transport providers to “dress up” a B1 bus and a Manly Ferry during WorldPride.
“We will also support WorldPride by exploring other partnerships,” Mayor Regan said.
“Council looks forward to providing this amazing cultural and tourism opportunity both on the Northern Beaches and for greater Sydney. Standby for more news on events and activities.”
WorldPride celebrates the diversity of culture and identity in the Asia Pacific region, shines an international spotlight on First Nations culture, and draws attention to LGBTQIA+ human rights abuses.