New Mardi Gras Seeks to Protect Naming Rights

As Mardi Gras is Australia’s premier gay and lesbian celebration, New Mardi Gras has taken steps to ensure that it stays that way.

Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is approaching its 32nd year, and what began as an act of defiance for gay equality and ended as a violent riot in 1978 has evolved into a powerhouse celebration of Australia’s colourful gay and lesbian culture.

New Mardi Gras (NMG) is to investigate establishing a separate organisation in order to protect its intellectual property which include the use of the name ‘Mardi Gras’.

The move was voted on by its members at its annual general meeting held on Wednesday at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts in Kensington.

It was one of two motions brought before the members. The second, a constitutional amendment that would legally bind the board to consult its members and hold a general meeting before implementing changes such as splitting the parade and party on separate weekends, was defeated.

It is hoped that the changes will result in a more colsultative stance to be taken by the new board of the NMG board.

Here's to a better year of Mardi Gras Celebrations!