Join UNSW’s Mardi Gras 2025 celebrations

31 Jan 2025
mardi gras

UNSW is committed to ensuring our LGBTQIA+ students and staff feel included, supported and celebrated.

This year Mardi Gras, one of Sydney’s most iconic annual events, takes place from Friday 14 February to Saturday 2 March. Once again Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) will partner with Arc to host a variety of activities and events.

Our engagement with the festival aims to strengthen our already inclusive culture and give students and staff an opportunity to show their pride on campus and beyond.

“UNSW is a proud supporter of LGBTQIA+ communities, both here on our campuses and around the world,” Professor Verity Firth, Vice-President, Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement said. 

“I am delighted that UNSW has been recognised as an inclusive employer with the highest accolade in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) – the Platinum Employer status. This is testament to the University’s ongoing commitment to LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion and acknowledges our students and staff as leaders in fostering diversity and inclusion for LGBTQIA+ communities.

“We all have the right to live our lives free from discrimination. So, at a time when the rights of our rainbow community are once again at risk, Mardi Gras is more than just a celebration, it’s an opportunity to stand up as individuals and a community to show our support and continue to drive progress for all.” 

We encourage everyone to get involved and show your pride.  

What’s on  

UNSW Fair Day Stall 

Sunday 16 February | Victoria Park 

Come and join 70,000+ people to kick off the Mardi Gras festivities where we’ll showcase work from UNSW’s queer researchers at our very own community stall.  

Mardi Gras [Viewing] Party 

Saturday 1 March | UNSW Art & Design (Paddington) 

UNSW invites all students and staff to watch the parade on the big screen at UNSW Art & Design at our Paddington campus. Entertainment, drinks and food will be provided. Just bring your pride vibe!  

Pride Cup 

Friday 28 February | Village Green, Kensington campus 

Arc Sport is hosting this friendly day of social sport competitions, plus free food, drag shows, music and good vibes. All skill levels are welcome. Register in a team or as an individual to join the fun.  

 View the full program and find out more on the EDI website.  

Other ways to get involved  

Training  

Contribute to our inclusive culture and sign up for LQBTQIA+ Allyship@unsw. This inclusion training gives participants an increased understanding of the diverse identities and experiences within LGBTQIA+ communities. Find out more and register.  

Grants available for community-led projects 

We’re inviting the community to apply for funding for ideas, events, projects and activations that celebrate LGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusion on campus. Applications are open to all current students and staff. Find out more and apply. 

Support resources  

Beyond the festival, a range of LGBTQIA+ support and resources are always available to UNSW students and staff. 

Comments