We All Matter: Western Sydney University celebrates Mardi Gras

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For the sixth consecutive year, Western Sydney University participated in the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade on Saturday, 29 February.

The parade, which has been running for more than 40 years, is an annual celebration and inclusive expression of lesbian, gay, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) identity.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, is proud of the University’s ongoing efforts to support the LGBTIQ community.

“Western Sydney University is proud of its diversity. We are recognised as a sector leader in LGBTIQ inclusion and, with our Sexuality and Gender Diversity Strategy, we are creating an inclusive, safe and respectful place to study and work,” said Professor Glover.

Professor Michelle Trudgett, Pro Vice-Chancellor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education, Strategy and Consultation is excited by the opportunity for students and staff to participate in such an inclusive event.

“Participating in events such as the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and running on campus programs such as the Ally Network, helps to provide a safe and accepting community for our students and staff,” said Professor Trudgett.

In celebration of this year’s Mardi Gras Festival theme ‘What Matters?’, Western Sydney University’s float theme was ‘We All Matter’ to highlight that we are all equal members of the university community.

Representing Western Sydney University at the parade was a 60-strong contingent of students, staff and alumni. Amongst the group were senior leaders of the University including, Professor Trudgett, Professor Kate Stevens, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), Professor Anna Cody, Dean of the School of Law, and Ms Susan Hudson, Executive Director of Human Resources.

Ally Network Convenor, Michelle Corbett explains that the network strives to create an inclusive and safe study and work environment, by promoting greater visibility, awareness and support of students and staff who are diverse in their sex, gender and/or sexuality.

“Mardi Gras is a wonderful opportunity for the Ally Network and the Queer Collective to come together to celebrate every member of the Western Sydney University LGBTIQ community and to show the world that we all matter!” said Ms Corbett.

Many of the Mardi Gras participants are members of the Ally Network and the Queer Collective. To find out more visit the Ally Website or the Queer Collective Facebook page. The Office of Equity and Diversity also offers additional support for LGBTIQ staff and students.

ENDS

3 March 2020

Kathryn Bannon, Media Officer