Narrowing the gen gap
While debate rages over next year’s Mardi Gras parade name, a group of young people are focusing on more important matters -“ getting their float together.
Generation Youth is planning a Mardi Gras entry to recognise the people who marched for gay and lesbian rights in 1978, as well as the role the younger generation have in the future of same-sex rights.
The group is looking for 78ers, as well as people born in or after 1978, to march together under the Generation Youth banner -“ to symbolise the handing over of ideals and values of New Mardi Gras to the next generation.
Ed Ng, 20, said the parade entry would recognise the past as well as the future.
It’s about the rebirth and renewal of Mardi Gras as an organisation, a passing of the pink sash to young people, Ng said.
We realise that we are the future of the community and we want to commemorate the efforts of the 78ers, he said.
Without them we wouldn’t have a Mardi Gras and we wouldn’t have all the advance in the rights we have grown up with.
The float would also recognise the goals of New Mardi Gras -“ community, inclusion, accessibility and fun.
Generation Youth was formed for queer and questioning NSW youth to take part in Mardi Gras celebrations. Last year’s Generation Youth parade entry -“ Unity In Diversity -“ involved 120 young people.
To get involved, contact Theresa on 8585 6302 or email [email protected].
