Hi Aries54 ( Alan),

Thank you for the information. I grew up in Sydney,
but I led a very sheltered life so I didn't know
much about gay people. I watched the parade last night
with interest. It was through my travels and work that
I got to meet and know quite a few gay people. Also at
uni - one of my favourite lecturers was gay. A brilliant
and inspiring lecturer - teacher.

Apart from their obvious problems, some of the alphabet crowd have a need to "celebrate" their difference.

Although there is no shadow of doubt that homosexuality is unnatural and wrong, l don't care how they, or other people, live their private lives or who they live them with. It's all this in your face, look at me rubbish that gets my goat; as does the Prime Minister and a state
Premier poncing along with them.

Sydney is Sodom. Let's hope we never have a Gomorrah as well.

Talking about Palestinians?

"Pride in Protest", had the theme for their float
this year - "Trans Pride not Genocide."
They encouraged people to join their group and
bring Palestinian flags.

A separate march by Jewish gays also took place
where the "Stars of David," were out in full force.

The parade was balanced - with no violence.

Celebrities took part - including actor Hugh Sheridan
who was sadened that the police officers were not allowed
to wear their uniforms. He said that the officers were
also part of the community and were entitled to grieve.
The Mayor of Sydney, and the Premier also took part, as
did Labor MP Tanya Plibersek.

Police Operations made several comments in relation
to the 2024 Mardi Gras Parade in Sydney on Sunday. They
have concluded that the overall behaviour of the crowds
at the Parade was pleasing with an estimated crowd
of 120,000 spectators, and 12,500 participants attending
the event. No small feat.

Assistant Commissioner Anthony Cooke APM said it was a
good example "of a successful Mardi Gras event. The
majority of people were well behaved and enjoyed the
event safely and responsibly."

High praise indeed.

The same can't be said about some of the hooligans at our
sporting events. Football violence comes to mind.

I went to sleep last night mulling over the objections
of some on this forum who consider homosexuality as
being not "normal."

So what is "normal?" Because as we should know there
are many versions of sexual activities, many "sex toys,"
and many different sexual behaviours. I won't go into
all the behaviours - but you get the drift.

Religion has probably played a role in our judgements.
However, shouldn't we be mature enough today - not to
judge others? And expect people to behave only by what
we think is appropriate? Shouldn't we allow to just
"Live and Let Live?" As long as the behaviour is
between two consenting adults and does not hurt anyone
shouldn't we just accept the fact of the diversity of
our sexual behaviour?