MARDI GRAS 2021
Currently, the team at SGLMG HQ are knee-deep in parade planning.
After such a difficult year, there could be no more apt a theme, Rise.
In light of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, we are pleased to announce that the Sydney Cricket Ground can now operate a full capacity. This means that the 2021 Mardi Gras Parade will welcome up to 46,000 people, double what was previously permitted. Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday 9 December at 2pm via our website.
We have also doubled our free ticket offering for community members who are feeling the financial impacts of Covid-19, now giving away 2,000 free tickets to ensure the parade is as accessible as possible. We are excited to announce that entries for the hardship tickets are now open and will be done so via a ballot and 1000 people randomly drawn which receive 2 tickets to attend the Parade.
A lot of hard work is going into the planning, and I promise that it will be as spectacular and entertaining in its design as in previous years.
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
The team have been doing some number crunching in the lead up to the end of the year, and I thought I would share a few interesting stats about our partners.
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Since 2018, ANZ has given away $200,000 in grants to support LGBTQI projects across Australia.
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Since 2016, our partners have contributed a staggering $1,042,000 in community grants and festival support.
The recipients of the ANZ community grants program were recently announced and in case you missed it, have a look at how the 11 not-for-profit organisations and individuals will use the funding for a wide range of projects that will positively impact our communities.
We are thankful for the support our partners provide, particularly in the donations they give to support our community at the grassroots.
ETHICAL CHARTER
As you may know, in November we sent out a draft of our Ethical Charter to get your feedback on the shape it is raking. We received so much positive feedback, as well as a few things for us to think further on.
The majority – over 75% – are in favour of the Charter, with many saying the principles are strong and that it is reassuring to see Mardi Gras putting principles first in all of its decision-making. We couldn’t agree more and that’s precisely what we want to do now and into the future.
We still have a bit of work left to do in finalising and tidying up the Charter but are hoping we can release soon.
OUR TEAM
I want to take this final opportunity to thank the incredible Mardi Gras team who have worked so hard to keep our organisation strong and united during these dark days.
They have shown great determination to find solutions despite all the setbacks and for that I am eternally grateful.
HAVE A FABULOUS FESTIVE SEASON
2020 has been a tough year. While I hope 2021 will be a better year for all us, I know for some the impacts of 2020 will linger well into the new year. Please don’t forget that if you need it, there is always someone to talk to – friends, family and any one of the amazing services at BeyondBlue (1300 22 4636) and Lifeline (13 11 14).
Otherwise, I hope you all have an opportunity to have some time off over the holiday period. Whether you’re spending it at home, with friends or family or whether you’re planning to take a break from the world altogether and get some peace and quiet – I hope you find what you need over the holidays.
With love,
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