Reconciliation and Social Justice Library

COUNCIL’S FIRST MARDI GRAS  

Chairperson Evelyn Scott today confirmed that the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation was supporting the reconciliation contingent in this year’s Mardi Gras for the first time to thank the gay and lesbian communities for their tremendous support of reconciliation.

"Many Indigenous and non-Indigenous gay and lesbian people are closely involved in the reconciliation process, and we appreciate their ongoing support," Ms Scott said.

"I believe reconciliation and the gay and lesbian communities share a respect for diversity and human rights and I believe both are committed to equality and social justice.

"I am proud to be able to take part in my first ever Mardi Gras, as are my fellow Council members," Ms Scott said.

Ms Scott and Council members Jackie Huggins, Dimity Fifer, Alma Stackhouse OAM and Sally Goold OAM will all take part in the march under the theme Black +White+Pink/ Corroboree 2000, the third float in the parade. Council members will walk with more than 450 reconciliation supporters on the night. The float will also raise awareness of the Council’s upcoming national event, Corroboree 2000 and encourage gay, lesbian and wider community participation in that event this May 27-28 in Sydney.

The reconciliation float could not have been possible without the efforts of the Black+White+Pink Local Reconciliation Group from inner-city Sydney, who put in hours of voluntary work to decorate and prepare the walkers. Black+White+Pink is a gay and lesbian organisation committed to ensure the human rights, equality and self determination of Indigenous lesbians, gays, transgender/ sistergirls are respected.

"Council’s participation in the Mardi Gras sends a great message of support to the Indigenous gay, lesbian and sistergirl communities," Black+White+Pink spokesperson Garry Convery said today

"We are thrilled to have the work we do for reconciliation recognised at the national level," Mr Convery said.  

CANBERRA 3 March 2000