A range of local events across NSW during Pride Month in June celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of the state’s LGBTQ+ communities have been announced as the successful recipients of a small grants program provided by NSW’s leading HIV and LGBTQ+ health organisation, ACON.
Designed to honour the wide range of identities and backgrounds that make up NSW’s LGBTQ+ communities, this year’s ACON’s ‘Diversity Days’ grants scheme has been timed to mark the global celebration of sexuality and gender diverse communities during June’s Pride Month.
Originally given out by ACON to mark IDAHOBIT (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia), the focus and name of the grants have been revamped in order to generate more awareness regarding other days of significance for our communities; and to empower the community organisations and community members we work with to host events on the days that are most relevant and meaningful to them.
Fourteen grants of up to $1000 each have been awarded to community groups and organisations throughout NSW, with a particular focus on regional and rural areas, as well as events for LGBTQ+ First Nations people. Among the activities being held are community picnics, balls, history nights, project launches, pride events and more.
ACON CEO Nicolas Parkhill says community events being held for LGBTQ+ communities are vital in ensuring visibility for sexuality and gender diverse people in both metropolitan and regional areas.
“We were excited to see a diverse range of applications for Diversity Days grants this year. The grants committee was impressed by the breadth of activities supporting various communities, which at their core, are all about celebrating our wonderful diversity and fostering inclusion.
“From a dazzling NAIDOC ball to a vibrant multicultural festival, a captivating Rainbow Histories night, and a Pride Month bonanza, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Pride Month is a great opportunity to bring together our communities from around NSW to celebrate inclusion and diversity, as well as undertake activities that promote good mental health and well-being.
“It’s vital to have visibility for our communities wherever they are, as LGBTQ+ people need to know they have safe places to be themselves and to feel celebrated for their identities.
“ACON is proud to work with our partners in celebrating the rich diversity of our vibrant communities in NSW. By raising visibility, we hope to continue to address discrimination, and work towards fostering an inclusive society that is healthier for us all.”
“Make sure to mark your calendars for June, the month of Pride, as we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and pave the way for an inclusive and accepting future. Let's come together, raise awareness, and create unforgettable memories.”
ENDS
For more information please contact:
David Alexander, ACON Media and Communications
E: [email protected] T: +61 (02) 9206 2044 M: 0428 477 042