The sun was shining down on all as the Midsumma Carnival started the 22 day festival celebrating LGBTIQA+ culture, held during January and February in Melbourne.
With a backdrop setting of the beautiful Yarra River, the carnival is an iconic staple of the LGBTIQA+ community which showcases a diverse range of artists, performers, communities and audiences.
As with every year, MacKillop was there with bells on. Dressed from head to toe in colour, we had a fantastic day and were able to have many conversations about foster care and how to get involved.
With over 9,000 children and young people in Victoria in out-of-home care, there is an ever-growing need for foster carers.
We at MacKillop welcome all potential foster carers including lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse and intersex people at our services. Children in care may also identify as LGBTIQA+ and require carers who are understanding, accepting and nurturing of their identity.
It is all a part of MacKillop’s commitment to embracing inclusive culture and drawing strength from diversity and respecting the dignity of all people.
Victorian State Manager Carer Recruitment and Development Tania Ferris, who enjoyed the whole Midsumma Carnival day, says it remains a staple event in the MacKillop calendar.
“This is a day when the worries of the world fade and hearts are filled with joy. There was a lot of love in the air at Midsumma, which provides the perfect environment for uplifting conversations around our need for more foster carers.”
On the back of our stall at the Midsumma Festival, MacKillop will be attending upcoming Pride events like the Bendigo Pride Festival and the Geelong Pride Film Festival,” Tania said.
