Western Sydney University celebrates a decade of Mardi Gras pride
Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership with Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO who led Western Sydney University's Mardi Gras parade contingent in 2024.
For the tenth consecutive year, Western Sydney University will participate in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday 2 March.
The annual parade is Australia’s largest celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning, asexual, and otherwise sexuality and/or gender-diverse communities (LGBTIQIA+).
Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AO said this year’s celebration would mark Western Sydney University’s tenth anniversary of participating in the parade.
“The University has a longstanding and proud commitment to supporting our LGBTIQIA+ community as a sector leader in inclusion and equality. We are committed to creating a safe and respectful place to study and work across our campuses and within the communities of Western Sydney,” said Professor Westacott.
The theme of the 2024 Sydney Mardi Gras Parade is ‘Our Future’. All Western Sydney University students, staff and alumni are invited to take part in the University’s contingent – themed ‘Beyond the Rainbow – Building Our Future Together’.
STEAMpop have partnered with the University to bring our theme to life, conducting a series of workshops where participants make wearable art as part of their costumes for the parade.
For Master of Public Health student, Vidushi Sethi, the 2024 parade will be her third time participating in the Sydney Mardi Gras with Western. This year, she says, will be extra special.
“Knowing Western is marking its tenth year in the parade fills me with immense pride. It speaks volumes about the institution I've chosen to be a part of – a place that values diversity, inclusivity, and community engagement,” said Vidushi.
“Seeing the university's long-standing commitment to spreading love and positivity reinforces my belief in its core values and makes me proud to be associated with such an institution.”
“This year’s theme is a reminder that there's so much more to discover and celebrate beyond the surface, embracing the richness of our differences and coming together in solidarity.”
Support for students and staff at Western Sydney University includes the Ally Network, Rainbow Western and the Queer Collective – groups and initiatives committed to creating an inclusive and respectful culture.
To find out more information about these and other initiatives, please visit the LGBTIQ Support web page.
For more information on Western Sydney University’s 2024 Mardi Gras Parade and community events, please visit our Mardi Gras page.
ENDS
29 February 2024
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