This article was originally published by QNews. You can find the original article here.
Transgender Victoria announces its withdrawal from the 2025 Midsumma Pride March after community feedback concerning police engagement.
Victoria’s leading body for transgender, gender diverse, and non-binary communities has made the decision to withdraw from the 2025 Midsumma Pride March.
Transgender Victoria CEO Dr. Son Vivienne announced the decision today on social media.
Vivienne stated that this difficult decision came after careful consideration of community feedback concerning police engagement.
“TGV has a long-standing commitment to advocating for improvements in police systems and practices.” the statement read,
“A recent community forum and survey conducted by TGV have confirmed a deep and pervasive discontent among TGD people regarding their interactions with and treatment by Victoria Police.
“We urge Victoria Police to commit to systemic reform pertinent to pride, protest, public safety and TGD human rights,
“Including comprehensive cultural sensitivity education and steps towards nuanced and gender-affirming data collection.”
“In light of these concerns, TGV’s Committee has approved a one-year suspension of participation in the Midsumma Pride March.
“Our future participation is contingent on Victoria Police accepting accountability for measurable change.
“TGV remains committed to supporting TGD and LGBTQIA+ communities at other Midsumma events such as Victoria’s Pride and Carnival.
“TGV believes that the safety and well-being of TGD communities must be urgently prioritised – during Midsumma and beyond.
“TGV is open to dialogue and collaboration to this end.”
Transgender Victoria will host a Trans Pride Picnic as an alternative event in partnership with other community-led organisations.
This event was postponed during Trans Pride Month due to poor weather, its date will soon be announced.
Violence between Police and Protesters in 2024
Last year at Midsumma Pride March violence broke out between protesters and Victoria Police.
After consultation, Victoria Police announced they would not march in traditional military uniform in 2024.
They participated in the march with a casual walk with rainbow family members and some participants wearing their rainbow pride uniform.
No participant in the march was permitted to carry weapons.
A group of 50 individuals confronted the Victoria Police contingent in the parade reportedly throwing pink paint at them.
The contingent marching in the parade showed restraint amidst the violence, seeking shelter in the Victorian Pride Centre.
Tempers soared and escalated behaviour broke out on both sides, putting a damper on the event.
“It was one situation that really marred a day of celebrations,” Midsumma CEO Karen Bryant said,
“There was certainly situations on both sides where we saw people actively seeking to escalate the situation.”
Since then Midsumma has engaged in extensive consultation regarding Pride March and Victoria Police involvement as a whole.
The results of this have yet to be made public.
Protests by community members have taken place over many years regarding Police involvement in the March.
It is also important to note that every year Victoria Police are cheered and supported by the majority of the community attending the Pride March.
As with any large-scale event in Victoria, including protests and parades, Police Officers have a presence.
This is a requirement of the event permit to monitor external threats or unsafe situations for attendees.
Last week, three masked individuals vandalised inclusive businesses calling for a boycott of the Midsumma Festival.
This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Pride March in Victoria.
This year’s Midsumma Pride March takes place on Sunday 2nd February along Fitzroy Street in St Kilda.
