Protect Mardi Gras

The threat

A group of activists is using AGM votes to push an exclusionary agenda.

They want to ban LGBTQIA+ police, politicians and sponsors. This risks turning Mardi Gras from a celebration of inclusion into a space of division.

The parade is an affirming joy that should be enjoyed by all LGBTIQA+ people. At Mardi Gras we are welcoming because we know that to protect our human rights – we have to build power by bringing people in.

Katherine Wolfgramme

Every time I go to Mardi Gras, I see someone’s heart open. It changes people. We need it to build power and allies

Peter Stahel

What’s at stake?

Mardi Gras is more than a parade. It’s a beacon. It saves lives by showing young people they are seen, valued, and celebrated.

When we stand together — even when we don’t agree on everything — we send a powerful message of unity. Excluding allies weakens the message. And it weakens us.

Every time I go to Mardi Gras, I see someone’s heart open. It changes people. We need it to build power and allies

Peter Stahel

Our vision

We believe Mardi Gras’ strength comes from unity, visibility, and the power of bringing people together. It must remain:

  • Inclusive of all LGBTQIA+ people
  • Welcoming to allies and supporters
  • A celebration of diversity, not division
  • A powerful front against hate, at home and abroad

When the LGBTQIA+ police joined the parade in 1998, it was a fabulous victory. Now, we are under attack around the world and we need powerful visibility more than ever before.

Peter Murphy
(78er and survivor of police violence)







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