By Mitchell Clarke
The Cardinia community came out to celebrate this year’s Midsumma Pride March by joining a local contingent and marching through the streets of StKilda.
The march, which is now in its 25th year, was held on Sunday 2 February and saw Cardinia Shire Council representatives join community members to show their support for the LGBTQI+ community.
Cardinia Shire Council mayor Jeff Springfield said it was important for him to stand up and show support for his friends, family and community.
“Attending this event is just one way council and community are striving for equality, fostering a sense of belonging for all people within our shire and demonstrating our support for our LGBTIQ+ community,” Cr Springfield said.
“Everyone has a right to feel safe, respected and secure within our society, regardless of how each of us may choose to express and identify ourselves in this world.”
Fellow councillor Michael Schilling attended the event and shared a similar sentiment to his colleague.
“It’s important to show support for all members of our community and I’m proud to live and work in a shire that supports inclusion and diversity,” Cr Schilling said.
“It’s inspiring to be involved in an event that focuses on empowering and supporting people from diverse backgrounds.
“We’ll continue to work towards supporting all members of our community.”
The event, which involved a one kilometre walk along Fitzroy Street, garnered the support of Victoria Police, including officers from local stations.
Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton led the police contingent and said he was pleased to notice progression in the 19 years that Victoria Police have marched in the event.
More than 420 police officers are now listed as GLLOs, otherwise known as LGBTIQ liaison officers.
“Since the program started in 2014, we now have more than 420 GLLOS who provide advice to the organisation and ensure the community have access to tailored and sensitive additional support,” CCP Ashton said.
“I feel proud of the progress we’ve made as an organisation to build stronger relationships and repair any hurt that may have been caused to our LGBTIQ community and colleagues.
“While this is still a work in progress, I am confident that we will continue to move forward in improving our understanding, acceptance and respect.”
