Mardi Gras is coming up first week in March. This often raises the question ‘What is the value or significance of such events’.

Everyone has an opinion about a Pride March such as the annual Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras; often very strong opinions. Predictably, conservative Christians condemn it. Rev Fred Nile, leader of the Christian Democratic Party regularly condemns it. In March 2007 his media release read, “I call upon A…nthony Venn-Brown and these marchers to withdraw from this blasphemous, obscene parade and not bring the Name of Jesus Christ into disrepute”. He believes that the judgement of God comes on Sydney because of it and each year encourages Christians to pray for rain on the night.

But criticism is not just from those outside the community. Even some gay and lesbian people think it’s not a good thing to have an annual community celebration, particularly marching publicly down a main street.

I love the Simpsons episode where Homer has taken the family to see the Pride march. As the marchers pass the family a group are yelling out the slogan. “WE’RE HERE! WE’RE QUEER! GET USED TO IT!

Lisa yells back “WE ARE USED TO IT! YOU’VE BEEN DOING THIS FOR YEARS”.

At our first meeting we will discuss the pro’s and con’s of events like Mardi Gras month and the parade. Do they further our cause for acceptance and equality or reinforce stereotypes.

When: Friday 4 February 2010

Time: 7.15 for 7.30 start (finish 9.00pm). This is a secure building and as our meeting is downstairs doors close at 7.30. Dont be late or we have to keep sending people upstairs to let late comers in.

Where: ACON Building – Lower ground floor – Rooms 9-10

9 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills Sydney

After our formal meeting you are welcome to join us for a reasonably priced dinner or a snack at Betty’s Soup Kitchen, Oxford St and possibly a drink as well after that. STAY AS LITTLE OR AS LONG AS YOU LIKE. Always interesting conversation with quality people.

GUESTS WELCOME

If you want further details then email [email protected] or phone 0416 015 231