Curio

State Library of New South Wales

Official Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras t-shirt, 1983

Selection of official Mardi Gras t-shirts from Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, 1983–1991
MLMSS 5977 / Box 30

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras traces its origins back to 1978. In that year, the newly formed Gay Solidarity Group organised a street parade with costumes and music, to commemorate the anniversary of the New York Stonewall riots in 1969. The first parade took place late in the evening of June 28th 1978. Less than an hour into the parade, riot police moved in to disperse the crowd, resulting in violent conflict between the marchers and police. More than 50 people were arrested.
From these inauspicious beginnings, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras has become one of the most important economic events in Sydney. Its flamboyant costumes and floats, and ever-increasing side events attract thousands of tourists from around the world.

Winning straight support

By The Star, v. 5, n. 16, Feb. 24 1984, page 1

"The Mardi Gras is one of the best opportunities for winning straight support to our side of the fight for social acceptance of our lifestyle. Straights are not coming to take over our celebration; they are coming to celebrate with us. There will be many local residents at the parade and party. Make them feel welcome and show them a good time."  

The most controversial t-shirt

By Letters, Sydney’s Star Observer, n. 47, Feb. 20 1987, page 8

The most controversial t-shirt in Mardi Gras history is also on display. In 1987, the Mardi Gras committee decided for the first time to have an external franchise produce the official t-shirts. The company convinced the committee to drop the words ‘Sydney’ and ‘Gay’ from the shirts to make them more commercially appealing. The gay community was incensed. Committee President, Murray McLachlan wrote at the time, ‘In hindsight, the decision to drop the words “Sydney Gay” was unfortunate’. He went on to say however, that the design of the shirt did not allow for four words and that those living outside the ‘gay ghettos’ might feel more comfortable in a shirt without the word ‘gay’ on it.

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade

By Official Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras website

The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is the centrepiece and overall best loved Sydney event, a glittering procession of more than 9,000 people, outrageous floats, lavish costumes, stunning designs and dancing.