CPA Joins Partners to Raise the Rainbow Flag Ahead of Mardi Gras 2025

Rebecca O’Sullivan, CPA’s Acting General Manager of Influence and Advocacy, delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on the organisation’s two-decade history of involvement in the Mardi Gras. She spoke passionately about the importance of representation, not just in the LGBTQIA+ community, but also for people with disabilities who identify as part of this vibrant group.

“We’ve been part of the Mardi Gras for 20 years, and it’s so important that our clients and staff in the LGBTQIA+ disability community are seen and acknowledged,” Rebecca explained. “Over a third of people with disabilities identify as LGBTQIA+, and we want to make sure they feel celebrated and recognised for who they are.”

“Our participation in Mardi Gras is about more than just the parade—it’s about recognising and celebrating the intersectionality of our community. Many people with disability identify as LGBTQIA+, yet they continue to face unique barriers to inclusion, both within the disability community and in broader society.

“While research shows up to 40 per cent of people with disability identify with this community – misconceptions still exist—misconceptions that assume people with disability don’t have relationships, don’t express their identities, or don’t belong in LGBTQIA+ spaces.

“By being part of this event, we are making it clear that disability and LGBTQIA+ identity are not separate experiences. They are deeply connected, and visibility matters. We need to listen to and elevate their voices,” Rebecca said.

As an organisation, CPA has worked tirelessly to create an environment where people are free to express their identities. This includes fostering a culture of inclusivity for both staff and clients. Rebecca continued, “We are proud to provide a safe space for our community, where they can express their joy about being part of the LGBTQIA+ disability community.”

This year’s Mardi Gras participation is especially meaningful as CPA continues its close partnership with Northcott and the Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford).

Together, the three organisations will have 80 individuals—staff, clients, and support workers—taking part in the iconic parade, including 25 from CPA. For the first time, a client with a disability, Angela McReynolds, will proudly serve as the official flag bearer. Angela, who lives with cerebral palsy, is an inspiring role model for others in the disability community and a strong advocate for inclusivity.

We are also thrilled to have Elly Desmarchelier, an accomplished disability rights campaigner and author who also lives with cerebral palsy, as our CPA Ambassador. Elly is a fierce advocate for disability rights and embodies everything our float represents – freedom, expression, and pride.

The collaboration between CPA, Northcott, and Afford is a powerful example of how communities can come together to raise awareness and celebrate diversity. It’s a testament to the strength of the LGBTQIA+ disability community, which is often overlooked, yet resilient and proud.

The 2025 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras will once again be a powerful symbol of love, inclusivity, and community, and CPA is excited to join forces with its partners to raise the Rainbow Flag and make a bold statement about the power of diversity and inclusion.