For 20 years, the City of Perth has supported Pride WA and the work it does to champion the rights and freedoms of the LGBTIQ community.
The Pride movement in Western Australia began on October 23 1989, when “89ers” marched from the Esplanade to the steps of Parliament House, in a move that inspired generations to come to be proud of who they are.
Following the galvanising event, Pride WA was born.
In 1999, the biggest and most colourful Perth Pride Parade was held in Northbridge with the help of funding from the City of Perth.
To celebrate 20 years of support, City of Perth staff will participate in the 2019 Pride Parade and a Pride flag will be flown outside Council House.
The City also awarded a two-year sponsorship to Pride WA this year.
This longer term commitment provides Pride WA with much-needed stability and the ability to plan and develop the event into the future, and recognises the important impact Pride has on our community.
“We are all richer for having this invaluable organisation as part of Perth’s diverse culture,” Chair Commissioner Andrew Hammond said.
“The City has a long history in supporting PrideFEST as it brings more colour, vitality and life to the streets of Perth.
“In its 30th year, Pride WA will activate the streets with vibrant activity for Pride Parade as more than 20,000 people come to watch the joyful celebrations.”
Pride WA President Frances Burgess said they were reflecting on 30 years of celebrating and advocating for the LGBTIQ+ community.
“We also reflect on the support from our allies who have helped develop PrideFEST into what it is today,” she said.
“The City of Perth have supported Pride WA since 1995 and their recent multi-year commitment will ensure we can continue to provide Western Australia’s largest LGBTIQ+ celebration for decades to come.”
PrideFEST is the pinnacle of the Pride WA calendar with a month of arts, culture and community events staged in Perth and around Western Australia.
The theme for this year is Reflect; love, heroes, community and identity.
PrideFEST 2019 will kick off on 2 November with Fairday and celebrations will culminate with the Pride Parade on Saturday 30 November.
Events listing:
Pride Parade
30 November | Northbridge | 8 to 10pm | Free to spectate
The extravagant Pride Parade will be a highlight of this years’ PrideFEST with the community going all out to celebrate their freedom. With a brand new route through Northbridge, the Pride Parade is guaranteed to bring thousands to the streets in a rainbow sea of colour, celebration and happiness.
Francis Street Party
30 November | Francis St Northbridge | 7 to 11pm | From $5
Directly following the parade will be this year’s official street party. Located on Francis St, the awards for best float, best costumes and best choreography will be presented by Famous Sharron.
