Western community rises in celebration of Mardi Gras
Western Sydney University's 2020 Mardi Gras Contingent
Western Sydney University will again participate in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, to be held on Saturday 6 March.
Spanning more than 40 years, the parade is an annual celebration of lesbian, gay, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) identity, and this year represents the seventh consecutive year the University has been involved.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said the University is recognised as a sector leader for LGBTIQ inclusion.
“Western Sydney University is proud of its diversity. Through our on-campus initiatives such as the Ally Network and Rainbow Western, we are committed to creating an inclusive, safe and respectful place to study and work,” said Professor Glover.
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement and Advancement), Professor James Arvanitakis, and Executive Director, Equity, Diversity, Safety and Wellbeing, Ellen Brackenreg, will lead the contingent of 40 University students, staff and alumni participating in the parade this year, which includes members of the Ally Network, Queer Collective, and Rainbow Western.
In line with the festival theme ‘We Rise’, the University’s float theme will be ‘Unlimited – We Rise’.
Professor Arvanitakis said the theme aims to highlight that when we come together as a university community and support each other, our potential is unlimited.
“I am proud and excited to be attending such an important event that brings together and celebrates the collective strengths and diversity of the University community,” he said.
The parade will be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground as a means of managing the event whilst adhering to current Australian Government and health authority COVID-19 advice.
To find out more about the University’s Ally Network or Queer Collective, visit the Ally website(opens in a new window) or the Office of Equity and Diversity for additional support for LGBTIQ staff and students.
ENDS
5 March 2021
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