Sydney World Pride Reception 2023
On 30 March 2023, High Commissioner Paul Stephens hosted an event at Australia House to celebrate the success of Sydney World Pride 2023 and bring together LGBTIQ activists, representatives from the Sri Lankan government and police force as well as the diplomatic corps for an evening of conversation and networking on issues around gender diversity.
The diverse crowd was treated to some curated highlights from Sydney World Pride on the big screen. Our pride-themed balloon arch set the mood for continuing the rainbow celebration in Colombo.
High Commissioner made remarks highlighting how proud Australia was to host Sydney World Pride in Sydney this year but recognised that in Sri Lanka, LGBTIQ people continue to face discrimination, persecution, attacks on their dignity and identity, and barriers to accessing essential services.
He then introduced a panel, moderated by Post and led by local LGBTIQ community leaders to reflect on progress made, and to start a discussion on how Australia and our stakeholders in Sri Lanka might work together toward a more equal and inclusive Sri Lanka.
Panellists included Rosanna Flamer-Caldera, founder of the oldest LGBTIQ advocacy organisation in Sri Lanka, Equal Ground who reflected on her recent trip to Sydney for World Pride as well as human rights advocate Niluka Perera and transgender activist, Bhoomi Harendran.
From left to right: Tanya Warnakulasuriya (Moderator), Rosanna Flamer-Caldera (Panellist),
Niluka Perera (Panellist) and Bhoomi Harendran (Panellist)