Pride March Events
Pride March 2008 has officially launched in grand style on the lawns of the St. Kilda Town Hall. Guests were informed about the exciting changes to this year's march and Catani Gardens' celebrations, told of the many fabulous partners and supporters involved, given an over view of the OUT Games, and officially welcomed to the City of Port Phillip by Her Worship, The Mayor of Port Phillip, Cr. Janet Cribbes.
Pride March Victoria would like to thank all who attended, congratulate the Poster Competition winner [who was presented with a package from MIDSUMMA, 2 tickets to Mass Debate from the VGLRL and an iPod Nano from Computers Now], Vicki Jones who was on hand to take the pictures below, the volunteers who kept things moving, and the wonderful Port Phillip Council staff who ensured it all went off without a hitch.
Many dignitaries were present from both the business and community sector of Melbourne, including the Member for Albert Park, Martin Foley MP.
Pictured: St. Kilda Town Hall lawn with Mayor Janet Cribbes and 5 runners from the inaugural ASIA Pacific Outgames racing around the drive with the Rainbow flag
“Since 1995, the Pride March has continued to change lives and perceptions – not just of the people in the 100 groups which regularly participate – but of the tens of thousands who line Fitzroy Street each year,” Her Worship, the Mayor of Port Phillip, Janet Cribbes said.
“But just seeing the Pride March on TV or hearing about it can give hope and comfort. It’s sad but true, prejudice against gays and lesbians still exists – you still get bashed up for simply being who you are. You still don’t always get invited to family Christmases or get told your partners aren’t welcome.
“Too many gays, particularly young gays, still fear coming out of the closet. Too many suicide because the prospect of coming out or being found out is just too terrifying. For some individuals, the Pride March can be a life-changing experience – the first time they have experienced being fully welcomed and accepted.”
Cr Cribbes said that Australian laws continued to reflect outmoded attitudes. “Over 56 Federal laws discriminate against gays. The good news is that the Relationships Bill looks likely to go through Parliament in the first quarter of this year and should be operational by the end of the year,” she said.
“It’s not quite marriage with a horse and carriage but it will provide recognition of relationships. In an age of mistrust, cynicism and division, love must be rewarded.”
Cr Cribbes said that part of the reason that the Pride March continues to transform lives and attitudes is its inclusiveness.
