The PWDA community were out loud and proud at the 46th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday 2 March 2024.
To the loud cheers of the spectators, our members proudly asserted our rights, as they danced, wheeled, and marched along Oxford Street.
PWDA President Marayke Jonkers said, “At this year’s Mardi Gras Parade our community was loudly calling for change now. We are not waiting for our rights. Our future starts now.”
“PWDA and our members will continue advocating all year round for a future where people with disability’s sexual rights are upheld and we have choice and control over our bodies, identities and sexualities.”
PWDA members also shared their pride in being a part of the PWDA float, with many not just proud to participate but to be representing and celebrating LGBTQIA+ people with disability.
Sarah* who marched for the first time said, “I had such a great time and felt so empowered by the event.”
PWDA CEO, Sebastian Zagarella said, “The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is a highlight on the calendar for us, and this year’s parade was no exception. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our community and let Australia know that people with disability are an important part of the LGBTQIA+ community.”
“It was also an opportunity to bring our members together, 30% of whom identify as LGBTQIA+. We were proud to be out and loud together.”
This year PWDA joined over 200 floats at Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. PWDA participation was made possible thanks to the support of the Sydney of City and National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
We take this opportunity to thank the Sydney of City and National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) for their sponsorship and support.
We also would like to thank the Sign Fairy who helped make our float sparkle and shine by donating all the float signage.
We’ve captured a few of our favourite moments from that night in this photo gallery. Thank you to everyone who came along and who cheered us on from afar.
*Not their real name
