TikTok returns as partner for 2022 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
TikTok has returned for its second year as a partner of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
TikTok’s Mardi Gras float will feature Australian pop singer Wafia as headline act, alongside a string of LGBTQ+ TikTok creators, including @nat.elise, a single mum who came out as bisexual on TikTok last year; @rainbowhistoryclass (aka Rudy and Hannah) who educate the TikTok community with queer and trans history lessons; and @carlafrombankstown, a comedian from the South Western suburbs of Sydney.
Those who are not able to attend the parade on the 5th of March will be able to view the TikTok float through a TikTok live from the event, set to be hosted by TikTok creators @mitchellcoombs, @nat.alise, @alright.hey and @jakebfisher from 7pm on the day. The platform will also be running a Mardi Gras hashtag challenge in the leadup to the event, with the creators of the most creative videos to win double passes to the parade.
In the leadup to the event, TikTok will work with LGBTQ+ creators to celebrate the Mardi Gras spirit via an in-app Mardi Gras hub, featuring highlighted Mardi Gras content, a list of LGTBQ+ creators to follow and a playlist of Pride anthems.
Commenting on her performance, Wafia said: “I couldn’t be more excited to be heading home to Australia to join the TikTok float at this year’s Mardi Gras parade. It feels amazing for my song ‘I’m Good’ to have been embraced by the queer community, especially at home, and it’s such an honour and a privilege to be able to perform as part of such a special night. This will be my first Mardi Gras, and what a way to kick things off. I can’t wait!”
Lee Hunter, general manager, TikTok ANZ added: “TikTok champions our diverse and inclusive community every day, it’s at the heart of what we do. We’re proud to once again be partnering with the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, showcasing our ongoing commitment to elevating LGBTQ+ voices and providing an open, inclusive platform where people can proudly show up as their authentic selves every day. We’re excited for our community to be marching in the official event in the name of inclusiveness and eagerly look forward to spreading that joy across Australia and the globe for those tuning in on TikTok to watch from afar. To our LGBTQ+ community – this is your moment to shine and feel the warmth of the world on you all!”
Earlier this month, the platform updated its community guidelines, explicitly naming a number of ideologies harmful to the queer community that are not accepted on the platform, including ‘deadnaming, misgendering, or misogyny as well as content that supports or promotes conversion therapy programs’.
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