(Community Recognition Statement, 11 February 2021, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I commend Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras for the innovative response to COVID-19 so that a safe Mardi Gras parade can go ahead in 2021.

Around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has meant Pride celebrations have been cancelled or moved online; these events are vital for our visibility and ongoing march to equality. This new way of proceeding despite the restrictions of a pandemic have resulted from constructive collaboration between Mardi Gras, Destination NSW and NSW Health, along with the SCG. Sydney's Mardi Gras 2021 won't only be a celebration for our city, but a beacon of hope for LGBTQIA+ communities around the world. The 2021 event will be different, but more important than ever before, with discrimination and criminalisation still prevalent around the world, especially in our region. Thank you to Mardi Gras CEO Albert Kruger and his team for finding a way to make this iconic and important event possible. Thank you also to SCG CEO Kerry Maher, Lord Mayor Clover Moore and Jenny Leong Member for Newtown for their support for this important celebration of diversity and inclusion.