On February 28 the streets of Sydney came alive with colour, music and celebration as thousands gathered for the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and Afford was proud to be part of the magic.
Supporting the People with Disability Australia float, our queer-identifying clients and their allies took to the parade with confidence, pride and pure joy, cheered on by a sea of supporters.
Seen and valued
An electric crowd waving rainbow flags happily celebrated every person in the parade. Their shouts of joy were a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, valued and celebrated for their authentic self.
As the float made its way along the parade route, the energy from the crowd was genuinely unforgettable.
Afford client Andrew was a definite crowd favourite on the night.
Cheers rang out from every direction. Rainbow flags danced in the air and smiles stretched from ear to ear as our clients waved proudly to the thousands of people lining the streets. It was a moment of pure celebration.
It was also a chance for our clients to stand tall, embrace who they are and feel the incredible power of belonging within a community that celebrates diversity, identity and love.
As our client Jeremey, who joined us on the night, says: “Everyone is the same, everyone has rights, everyone is equal. I support my sister who is gay and I love her.”
Rights, freedoms and opportunity
At Afford, this is exactly what we stand for. We accept and support people exactly as they are. We will always advocate fiercely for the rights, freedoms and opportunities needed for fabulous, fulfilling lives.
To everyone who marched, supported, cheered and celebrated with us – thank you for helping make the night so powerful, affirming and full of joy.
We can’t wait to do it all again next year.
