The State’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and gender diverse, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) communities are to be celebrated next year with the inaugural Melbourne Pride to mark 40 years since the decriminalisation of sex between men in Victoria.
Announced by Minister for Equality, Martin Foley, the event is to feature a series of activities across regional Victoria and a one-day street party in Melbourne’s inner north.
“The event will now be held on 13 February 2022 – a move that will allow more people to participate as our State safely reopens under Victoria’s Roadmap,” Mr Foley said.
“Melbourne Pride will help heal historic wounds by providing an opportunity for people across Victoria to demonstrate their pride in and support for LGBTIQ+ communities,” he said.
“Leading LGBTIQ+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma is delivering Melbourne Pride on behalf of the Victorian Government, with the inaugural event designed to mark more than 40 years since the decriminalisation of sex between men in Victoria.”
Mr Foley said the event would provide business and employment opportunities for industries, particularly LGBTIQ+-owned businesses, and provide a platform for LGBTIQ+ artists and advocates.
“Melbourne Pride is an opportunity for LGBTIQ+ Victorians and our wider community to come together after a challenging period which has exacerbated challenges some LGBTIQ+ people were facing before this pandemic, including isolation,” he said.
Commissioner for LGBTIQ+ Communities, Todd Fernando said Melbourne Pride was about celebrating the progress LGBTIQ+ people had made towards equality and reflecting on the work that still needed to be done “and this timing will help us to make this the best event it can possibly be”.
