Melbourne’s iconic Smith and Gertrude streets came alive yesterday for a one-day Street Party in celebration of Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ communities with support from the Victorian Government.
Minister for Equality Harriet Shing joined in festivities at the Victoria’s Pride Street Party in Collingwood and welcomed the show of support for the state’s diverse rainbow community.
“Victoria’s Pride is a wonderful opportunity for us all to come together to celebrate pride, identity and visibility,” said Minister for Equality Harriet Shing.
“Events like this are so important for inclusion, respect, and diversity, and I’m delighted to join thousands of people in our iconic Gertrude and Smith Streets.”
Victoria’s Pride Street Party is an annual, free and inclusive one-day event with multiple music stages, community and food stalls and a dizzying array of immersive activities including comedy, circus, drag and art installations.
Almost 50,000 people were expected to visit the street party event, which coincided with the final day of the Midsumma Festival calendar for 2024.
“Victoria’s Pride is always such a fabulous celebration as our core Midsumma Festival dates draws to a close; a day full of fun and festivities, showcasing exceptional LGBTQIA+ artists, performers, musicians and local businesses,” said Midsumma CEO Karen Bryant.
Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program 2023/24 featured 13 different arts and culture projects at venues throughout regional and rural Victoria, delivered by Midsumma.
The Government invested $6.8 million in the Victorian Budget 2022/23 in support of Victoria’s Pride events over four years.
Through its landmark 10-year plan for LGBTIQA+ equality, Pride in our future, the Government is working to create a Victoria where everyone feels safe, is healthy, has equal human rights and can live wholly and freely.
For more information about Midsumma, visit: www.midsumma.org.au for details.
Image: Victoria’s Pride – courtesy of Midsumma