Dayenu rejoins Mardi Gras parade after safety concerns

This article was originally published as 'Dayenu pulls out of Mardi Gras, citing safety concerns.' Following Dayenu's decision to participate, it has since been updated.

Sydney’s Jewish LGBTQIA+ group Dayenu will take part in the 2026 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, 28 February, marking its 26th consecutive year in the event.

The organisation had initially withdrawn from this year’s parade, citing “unprecedented concerns” for the safety of its members. Following discussions with Mardi Gras organisers and New South Wales Police, and with strong community support, Dayenu has now confirmed it will return to the parade.

In a statement published yesterday, the Dayenu committee said: “Dayenu would like to thank New South Wales Police and Mardi Gras for working with us to accommodate our safety concerns leading to our participation in this year’s Parade. We are delighted to be continuing our participation. We look forward to seeing you in the parade.”

Last year, Sydney’s Jewish LGBTQ+ group Dayenu celebrated its milestone 25^th year, marching in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade with its largest group to date. It was a moment of triumph, particularly after hostility in 2024 from the anti-Israel, radical queer group Pride In Protest.

The organisation's earlier decision to withdraw was announced as Sydney reeled from violent scuffles at the Town Hall during the visit of President Isaac Herzog.

“Since the tragic events of the October 7 attack in Israel, the Australian Jewish community have experienced an increasingly dangerous antisemitic climate in Australia. This has resulted in unprecedented concerns for the safety of Dayenu members and our Jewish community.