PWDA marches again to put LGBTQIA+ people with disability InFocus
Tuesday 3 February
PWDA returned to the streets of Melbourne St Kilda on Sunday 1 February to proudly represent LGBTQIA+ people with disability in the Midsumma Pride March for the second year.
This year the march attracted a crowd of over 20,000 people, with more than 13,000 participants marching down Fitzroy Street.
PWDA members, community members and representatives from VALID, the Victorian peak advocacy organisation for adults with intellectual disability, joined PWDA, marching under the banner InFocus: Queer & Disabled.
Developed in consultation with PWDA members, the InFocus: Queer & Disabled theme is about celebration, visibility and advocacy – placing LGBTQIA+ people with disability front and centre as leaders, storytellers and drivers of change.
Reflecting on the theme, PWDA member Shannon said, "InFocus to me means learning to take up space and not being apologetic for showing up as our authentic selves".
Following the march the group gathered in the Catani Gardens for a picnic, creating a space too allow conversation, reflection and shared celebration.
These moments strengthened relationships and reminded us that pride events are not only about visibility, but about belonging, connection and working together to shine a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ people with disability.
