Federation members came together for the first of several Mardi Gras workshops to create the outfits to be worn by members participating in the parade on Saturday 2 March 2019.
Members of the LGBTIQ Special Interest Group (SIG) spent the day creating large, rainbow angel wings to depict teachers as being ‘Angels of Education’ – to convey that the NSW Teachers Federation and public schools teachers strive to ensure public schools are safe, inclusive environments for all students, parents, teachers and the broader community.
While the Federation is excited and proud to be participating in Mardi Gras, our efforts to support young people and our members extends throughout the year with training for our members in how to support LGBTIQ students in schools, links to resources to assist teachers in creating inclusive and welcoming educational environments, and information about how to establish inclusive workplaces for all. The Federation has a long history of support for LGBTIQ students and teachers over many years and continues to build on this history.
Federation will also be attending Mardi Gras’ Fair Day on Sunday 17 February, and invites members and the community to visit the Federation stall to show your support for public education and LGBTIQ folk.
LGBTIQ SIG group members will meet for another workshop on the 10th January to continue the development of marching costumes. For those members interested being involved in LGBTIQ and Mardi Gras activities, the LGBTIQ SIG welcomes new members including LGBTIQ identifying members and/or allies. To join, please email [email protected] with your member name and number accompanying your request.
Federation is looking forward to continuing Mardi Gras involvement as it enables Federation and its members to send a message to all LGBTIQ public school students, teachers, parents and community members that our teachers support and celebrate them.