No room for hate or harm in Moonee Valley

Moonee Valley City Council will continue to support and celebrate the diversity of its community and will never tolerate those who hate or harm, Mayor Samantha Byrne said today.

The Mayor said a queer friendly Youth Week event held on Friday had attracted around 100 local residents in Queens Park who came to enjoy performances and participate in activities ranging from ukulele workshops, sustainable glitter creations and zine making.

“We were especially thrilled we were able to secure terrific performers including drag artist Belial B’Zarr as part of the program,” Ms Byrne said.

“However we were horrified that a handful of protesters chose to target an event for children and young people to try and spread their hate, she said.

Ms Byrne praised Victoria Police for their strong presence from the outset of the event which proceeded without disruption.  At no time were attendees unsafe as officers created a barrier between the protesters and the community members enjoying the event.

“Moonee Valley residents treated these protesters with the contempt they deserve – we are a strong and resilient community who just don’t have time for those who don’t embrace Australian values of treating everyone fairly and with respect and giving everyone a fair go,” she said.

Mayor Jacob Bettio said he would be pushing for even more queer friendly youth events moving forward.

“It is so important we continue to support our young people, children and those in the LGBTQIA + community.  They have been through enough in the past two years during lockdowns and now they are able to get out and enjoy activities with their friends and community it’s disgusting that protesters chose to target an event aimed at celebrating youth,” Cr Bettio said.

Ms Byrne said Moonee Valley City Council had terrific events planned for the whole community and said anyone who valued diversity and respect was welcome to come along.