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.
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