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For people seeking asylum, this year’s Mardi Gras theme, ‘Free To Be’, resonates deeply.
On 16 February, the Asylum Seekers Centre’s LGBTQIA+ peer group kicked off the Mardi Gras season with a picnic at Camperdown Memorial Park.
In collaboration with the Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS), the event offered a safe and joyful space to reflect on the significance of Mardi Gras. It was also a chance for members of the community to recognise the courage of those who have fled persecution and danger to be free to live as their authentic selves.
A picnic to remember
“ASC and RACS brought together our LGBTQIA+ peer group members to celebrate and connect with each other,” shares Mayna Hung, the coordinator of the ASC’s LGBTQIA+ Support Program.
The picnic was filled with food, fun, and meaningful conversations. While the cakes, games, and colourful photoshoots added some lighthearted fun, the real value of the gathering was in the discussions.
Many members of the community took the opportunity to share their personal stories, reflect on the hardships they’ve overcome, and discuss important topics like legal support.
RACS staff were on hand to offer guidance, ensuring people are supported in their journey to freedom.
Marching toward connection
After the picnic, the ASC and RACS group marched to Fair Day at Victoria Park for the exuberant start of the Mardi Gras Festival.
The group carried the Pride flag as they walked, a powerful symbol of their newfound freedom to be themselves.
For many, this was their first Fair Day experience, and it lived up to the excitement. With more than 200 stalls, food, music, and the unmistakable rainbow atmosphere, the day was filled with a sense of community and belonging.
For one participant, the day was even more special after a stall led him to a community that shared his faith. He hadn’t known queer members of his religion existed in the city, and it provided a valuable opportunity to expand his support network.
Mardi Gras: More than just a celebration
For people seeking asylum, this year’s Mardi Gras theme, ‘Free to Be’, hits close to home. Many members of the peer group have fled persecution and violence in their home countries, seeking safety and a chance to live freely in Australia.
A member of the group, Ron* shares, “I am so proud taking pictures with the pride flag for the first time. At last, (my) dream comes true. I am free.”
Reflecting on her Mardi Gras experience, Valerie*, a trans woman, says, “It’s a profound affirmation of my identity and existence. It offers a space where I can express myself authentically, surrounded by a community that celebrates diversity.”
Mardi Gras is much more than a festival—it’s a testament to resilience, unity, and the ongoing fight for equality.
“For the broader LGBTQIA+ community, Mardi Gras stands as a beacon of unity and solidarity. It commemorates the struggles and triumphs of our collective journey toward equality,” adds Valerie.
Building a brighter future together
The partnership between ASC and RACS was key in making the day possible for the members of the community.
Mayna adds that the ASC has more future events planned with RACS.
“Partnerships like this, built on inclusive and trauma-informed practices, are crucial for LGBTQIA+ people seeking asylum navigating the complexities of the protection process.”
“We’re so grateful for partners like RACS, ensuring LGBTQIA+ people seeking asylum are heard and able to share their identity.”
This collective action fosters a stronger, more inclusive community, where everyone has a future ‘Free To Be’.
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