Midsumma Festival’s technology partner, Telstra have announced that they have renewed their active position for marriage equality, and will continue their support of the festival in 2017.
Over the past week, Midsumma Festival has been working with Telstra to clarify their position. After some very encouraging discussions with all levels of the organisation, we are thrilled to share this wonderful announcement with them today.
Telstra has been an official Midsumma sponsor for over six years, not only have they been unwavering in their support for the DGS community, marriage equality and Midsumma but have also pioneered the fostering of a truly diverse workplace, due to unique and engaging activities developed for their staff during the festival and beyond.
“Our community has spoken very passionately over the past week in relation to this matter and we have been under enormous pressure to take a stand,” said John Caldwell, Midsumma Chair. “We have been reassured by Telstra every step of the way that their position on marriage equality remained unchanged and this latest announcement reinforces that.”
“Midsumma would never entertain a sponsor who was not both in line with and supportive of our community and we are thrilled with Telstra’s renewed commitment to publically support marriage equality. United with all of our wonderful sponsors including Telstra we look forward to bringing you the biggest and best Midsumma yet as we head into our 30th festival.”
Andrew Penn, Telstra CEO said in a statement released yesterday (Monday 18 April), “It is clear that rather than Telstra stepping back we should in fact step forward and support our view for marriage equality and so that is what we will do,” said Mr Penn. “By renewing our active position, we acknowledge that we are at equal risk of inflaming a new debate but it is the right thing to do.”
“It also remains very important that we continue to recognise and respect the right of the individual to hold their own view on this issue,” Mr Penn added
Midsumma have stated they “look forward to working with Telstra” and sharing the Festival’s 30th anniversary in 2017. For more information, visit: www.midsumma.org.au for details.