three people posing for a photo at the Midsumma Pride March. One of the people have a blue tshirt that says 'be proud, be you'

 

The Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Dr Gillian Sparkes, was proud to join over 8000 participants in scorching temperatures yesterday (28 January) for the Midsumma Pride March along Fitzroy Street in St Kilda. Dr Sparkes marched with the Victorian Public Sector Pride Network and colleagues from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning under the ‘Be Proud, Be You’ motto.

In its 23rd year, the iconic Midsumma Pride March recognises and celebrates the LGBTQI community. Despite the hot conditions, this year’s march attracted the largest crowd ever braving the heat to cheer on those marching in support of the LGBTI community and equality for all. Victoria police and the emergency services joined people of all ages and from all walks of life in an uplifting event and a spectacular display of music, costume and dance.

The Commission also recognises the contribution of equal rights to Sustainable Development Goal ‘10’ which aims to reduce inequality within and among countries by empowering and promoting inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.