[Edited extract from public address]
With its origins 22 years ago in the spontaneous demonstrations of Stonewall and speaking to the struggles of LGBTQIA+ peoples everywhere, Midsumma Pride March is a spectacular act of solidarity in a world where many go without rights, dignity, visibility, safety and/or protections from the law.
Parade, pride and party come together once a year in Melbourne's iconic queer march. But first, leading up to the event, in what may later be recorded as curious programming choices since recanted by event leadership, the public ownership of the event saw a major sponsor outed and dumped for being a subsidiary of a divisive and sensational global media group, overseeing reinstatement of fixture Dykes on Bikes as opening act.
In a first for the parade's history, it was led by a Boon Wurrung smoking ceremony accompanied by a contingent of queer Indigenous peoples. Aunty Caroline gave personal insight into some traditional words behind the symbolism to those within hearing distance on the go. Adapting to modern times, this ancient practice, usually stationery, used a very innovative and fire-friendly mobile device from a more modern time.
Always a rousing opening act, Dykes on Bikes cleared a path, opened eyes and hearts and prepared for those that followed. At a pedestrian pace, the kilometre-long procession of Victoria's diverse queer communities walked casually, danced, strutted, sang, catwalked, vogued, placarded, dragged but all moving together to the shared goal of celebrating difference, acceptance or diversity and greater equity for all members of society.
In a timely statement of public support and leading solidarity to groups recently under negative public scrutiny like Minus 18 and Safe Schools, the March also saw diverse groups from high schools, scouts and other youth groups.
Sighted personally were official appearances by Victorian Premier, Federal Opposition Leader and a Canal Ward Councillor. A wonderful show of force opened by a Police pipe and brass band, and strong showing of uniformed tight-formation marchers with pride included Police, Fire, SES, CFA and Ambulance services. Followed by a strong and diverse contingent from the public service sector.
Post Pride festivities at Catani Gardens were listed to be hosted by
Dale Woodbridge-Brown, renowned Circus Oz performer and proud queer Kamilaroi man, and headlined by Melbourne favourite, DJ
Grant Cook. Attendees at Catani Gardens were expected to engage in a momentary silence and vigil performance, a new Pride March tradition that pays homage to all queer peoples who have suffered violence because of their gender or sexuality. For 2017, this was expected to be performed by
Deborah Cheetham AO, celebrated Yorta Yorta soprano, actor, composer and playwright.
Cost: Free
Where: Fitzroy St & Catani Gardens, Fitzroy St, St Kilda 3182
Concluding, participants don't need to be LGBTQIA+ to participate, just to have an aspiration for a deeper understanding of diversity, shared equality in opportunity and a nurturing spirited togetherness. It's not a new thing, it is the usual thing. If it is exists in nature, diversity is natural and deserving of a place in home, in relationships, in workplace and in community. Without being the targets of ignorance-fuelled hate-crime. Non-gender specific Equality in Marriage is a milestone for a civilising, supportive and sustainable society.
On behalf of Buddhist Council Victoria Interfaith (bINTER) and Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN), thankyou to Organisers for the skillful diligence and many tireless efforts to make such a community event on this scale a reality. The inspired programming innovations to respond to external current events was flexible, adept and well-received. Thankyou to the ongoing wider community for their vocal, heart warming and demonstrative positive support for a more equitable society. Received with gratitude.
MORE:
Midsumma Festival
Phone: (03) 9415 9819
Level 8, City Village
225 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Website: https://midsumma.org.au/participate/pride-march/info
Pride March is made possible with the generous financial assistance of the City of Port Phillip.
