Friday, 27 February 2026

Sydney’s Values Shine Bright: Alex Greenwich Celebrates Pride and Progress at Mardi Gras Pre-Parade Press Conference

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich
Powerful Gathering on Gadigal Land


Sydney’s countdown to the world-famous Mardi Gras Parade gathered momentum this morning as community leaders, organisers and government representatives came together for the Pre-Parade Press Conference held ahead of the 48th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich opened his address by acknowledging the significance of standing on Gadigal land alongside Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras team, the 78ers and a wide range of community leaders and advocates who continue to shape the festival’s enduring legacy.

Greenwich described the moment as a celebration not only of an event, but of shared values that define Sydney as one of the world’s most inclusive travel destinations.

Sydney’s Message to the World

Speaking passionately about the upcoming parade, Greenwich emphasised the global importance of Mardi Gras and what it represents beyond the festivities.

“This Saturday, Sydney's values will be on show to the entire world,” he said. “We celebrate fairness and equality. We celebrate people for who they are, and we see people be proud of their sexuality and gender identity.”

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has evolved into a major international tourism drawcard, attracting visitors from across Australia and around the globe who come to experience a city united by acceptance, creativity and diversity. For many travellers, the parade offers a powerful cultural experience that blends celebration with advocacy and history.

Recognising Challenges and Advocating for Change

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
While acknowledging the joy surrounding Mardi Gras, Greenwich also spoke about the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQI+ communities.

“We know that this is a challenging time for our community and for many communities right across Australia,” he said, highlighting the need for continued progress in equality and legal protections.

He stressed the importance of strengthening hate crime laws in New South Wales to ensure sexuality and gender identity are fully protected across legislation. He also called for improvements to anti-discrimination protections, particularly within schools, and emphasised the importance of ensuring the LGBTQI+ community has access to justice through a fully funded LGBTQ+v legal service.

These messages reflected Mardi Gras’ dual role as both celebration and catalyst for meaningful social change.

A Parade That Inspires Hope

Looking ahead to the parade itself, Greenwich shared his excitement about once again joining Lord Mayor Clover Moore in the iconic procession through Sydney’s streets.

“I am really looking forward to jumping in the back of a convertible with the Lord Mayor Clover Moore again tomorrow, rolling down the Mardi Gras parade,” he said.

He described the parade as far more than a spectacle, calling it “a beacon of hope and a sign of strength for our community,” adding that the annual event continues to inspire resilience and optimism.

“It gives me strength every year that we will continue to fight and we will continue to win the battles and challenges ahead of us. So Happy Mardi Gras Sydney!”

Why Mardi Gras Remains a Must-Visit Global Event

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras stands as one of Australia’s most iconic cultural celebrations, transforming the Harbour City into a vibrant hub of performances, community events, art, nightlife and inclusive experiences. Visitors travel from around the world to witness the parade’s dazzling floats, powerful storytelling and unforgettable atmosphere.

For travellers seeking meaningful cultural experiences, Mardi Gras offers a unique opportunity to engage with Sydney’s progressive spirit while enjoying world-class entertainment and community connection.

As Sydney prepares for another unforgettable parade, the message from this morning’s press conference was clear: Mardi Gras remains both a celebration of identity and a powerful symbol of unity, resilience and pride.

Event Information

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
Sydney NSW Australia

Website: https://www.mardigras.org.au

City of Sydney Website: https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

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