Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras member and community consultations on Police participation 

 

What is the Mardi Gras Members and Community Police Participation Consultation?

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (SGLMG) Board is driving a community consultation process to gather feedback on a specific issue: the NSW Police Force’s participation in Sydney Mardi Gras Parade. It’s important to specify the operational presence of police at our events, mandated by NSW law, is not part of this consultation and will continue as required.

Why Are We Doing This?

Police participation in the parade has been a topic of ongoing discussion within our community. The SGLMG Board recognises the importance of addressing these concerns through a structured and inclusive consultation process. Our aim is to ensure that all voices within our community are heard, and that members have the necessary information to make informed decisions on this issue.

How Did We Arrive at This Specific Consultation Format?

The current consultation process was developed after careful consideration of feedback from our members and community. We wanted to create a format that balances thoroughness with practicality, ensuring that the process is effective and accessible to everyone.

Key considerations in shaping this consultation included:

• Timing and Impact: We carefully planned the timing of this consultation to ensure it aligns with our annual cycle, allowing for meaningful engagement without disrupting other important activities.
• Member and Community Voice: We prioritised creating a process that is transparent, accessible, and respectful of all perspectives within our community. The goal is to gather clear and unbiased data that will support informed decision-making.

What is the Purpose of This Consultation?

The primary purpose of this consultation is to provide a platform for our members and the broader LGBTQIA+ community to share their views on police involvement in the Parade. By collecting and analysing this feedback, we aim to offer our members a clear understanding of the community’s perspectives, which will inform discussions and decisions at the 2024 AGM.

Why Has This Consultation Not Started Earlier?

The complexity of this issue required careful planning to ensure the consultation process was designed for maximum impact while minimising potential harm to those taking part in the process. The Board has worked diligently with community and staff leaders to ensure that the consultation reflects the nuanced perspectives and concerns within our community.

What Are the Expected Outcomes?

The results of this consultation will be compiled into a report by an independent consultant who understands our organisation but has no vested interest in the outcome. This report will be made publicly available on our website and provided to members. The findings will support a motion at the 2024 AGM, where members will vote on the future of police participation in the Parade. The Board will not direct how members should vote; our role is to ensure that the decision is based on comprehensive and unbiased data.

How Can You Participate?

We invite all members of our community to participate in this consultation. There will be both in-person and online sessions to accommodate different preferences and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to share their views. There will be online forms sent pre and post to people who have registered. The data collected will inform the final report and assist in guiding the consultations.

Consultation sessions and links to register

Please only register for one consultation

MEMBERS ONLY session: 31^st August @ Glebe Town Hall: 11am – 12:30pm

Members and community ONLINE session: 4^th September: 6pm – 7:30pm (this will be a ZOOM meeting)

Members and community IN PERSON session: 7^th September 11am – 12:30pm @ St Peters Town Hall

Members and community ONLINE session: 11^th September: 6pm – 7:30pm (this will be a ZOOM meeting)