Three such proposals were put to a vote at the organization’s annual general meeting this morning.
After consultation earlier this year, the Mardi Gras board decided to table a motion to ban NSW police involvement ”until it demonstrates a commitment to improving relations with LGBTQIA+ communities”.
The motion was lost by 34 votes with 459 members in favor and 493 members against.
A Labor Rainbow proposal to allow officers to march without uniform and without weapons was also voted down by 419 members to 482.
Pride in Protest has tabled a motion to ban NSW Police from the parade altogether.
“Every year, organizations and institutions are turned away from marching,” a Pride in Protest spokesperson said at the meeting.
Their proposal was rejected by 425 members in favor and 522 against.
NSW Police welcomed the results of the meeting.
“The NSW Police Force has been marching in Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras since 1998. and for LGBTQIA+ staff and allies within the NSW Police Force, as well as their friends and family, it remains an important and meaningful annual event,” a spokesperson said.
“The NSW Police Force is dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and is proud of its role as a community leader for inclusion and diversity.
“The NSW Police Force also values its continued close relationship with gay and lesbian Sydney Mardi Gras to ensure the safety and success of its events.”
The Mardi Gras board will reconvene within 10 days to discuss the results and make a final decision.
