Indigo Shire Mayor, Cr Sophie Price and CEO Trevor Ierino have expressed their disappointment and genuine sadness at the postponement of the upcoming Rainbow Ball.
The Rural City of Wangaratta, which was hosting the event has announced the ball is being delayed following confronting commentary circulating on social media.
Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Dean Rees says the decision has been made for the safety of participants and staff due to the event being targeted by groups with radical views.
"We are extremely disappointed that there has been some hateful narrative around this event, we do not accept this, but we cannot risk an event that is about fun and celebration being a threat to anyone attending."
"Prioritising the safety of our community, especially our youth, is not negotiable but we will work with our partners to reschedule this event to enable all LGBTQIA+ young people, allies, and friends across the greater northeast region of Victoria to celebrate together."
"Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all people. We have a diverse and vibrant community and all members of our community have the right to feel safe and be themselves here," Cr Rees says.
Cr Price echoed Cr Rees, adding Indigo Shire condemns the behaviour that has led to this decision and does not tolerate any form of discrimination, hate or intimidation
"Unfortunately, this demonstrates how much more work we have to do to create genuinely inclusive communities and why days such as IDAHOBIT, which we so proudly celebrated a few weeks ago, need to exist to show we stand with our LGBTQIA+ community. As leaders, we need to continue to educate and advocate for better opportunities for our young people to feel safe, welcomed and loved, regardless of gender or sexual orientation," she said.
If this information causes any distress or you would like support at this time, please reach out:
- Q Life 1800 184 527 between 3pm – 12am
- Rainbow Door on phone 1800 729 367 or text 0480 017 246 between 10am – 5pm
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
