Police officers participate in the 44th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade at the Sydney Cricket Ground on 5 March 2022. Photo: AFP / STEVEN SAPHORE
By Victor Petrovic, ABC News
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) says it has made the decision not to march in this year's Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
On Monday night the Mardi Gras board requested that New South Wales Police not march in the 2024 parade, due to the distress it could cause in the community already reeling from the deaths of Luke Davies and Jesse Baird.
On Tuesday afternoon, NSW Police said two bodies had been found by detectives searching for the Sydney couple.
NSW senior constable Beau Lamarre-Condon has been charged with their murder, which police have alleged happened last Monday at Baird's home in Paddington.
An AFP spokesperson told the ABC they had planned to march with NSW Police in this year's parade, but had since decided against it.
Luke Davies and Jesse Baird. Photo: Supplied/Instagram
"Noting news reports that the Sydney Mardi Gras board had asked NSW Police not to march, the AFP has also made the decision not to march," the spokesperson said.
"This decision was not taken lightly, but we acknowledge how some in the community are feeling about the blue uniform. We have informed the event organisers of the decision.
"While the AFP feels a deep connection and service to LGBTQI+ community, we understand their hurt because of a number of recent events.
"We must always remember that this is an event for, and about LGBTQI+ communities, and those people who love and support them."
The spokesperson added that they had been attending the event for 20 years and hoped to march again next year.
"Most importantly, we hope all participants have a great time on Saturday and enjoy what is truly an amazing and inspiring event," they said.
'Watch this space'
Late on Monday night the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras board announced their request to police not to participate.
"Sydney Mardi Gras along with LGBTQIA+ communities across the country have been devastated by the loss of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, whose lives were cut short last week," their statement read.
"Police have charged a man with their murder, a NSW Police officer who has previously participated in the Mardi Gras Parade."
NSW Premier Chris Minns has said he was hopeful NSW Police and the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras board can come to an agreement over the issue.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said police and the Mardi Gras board had a "fruitful" discussion on Tuesday.
"That discussion will be ongoing. But it was a really good opportunity for me to hear what their concerns are. And I think we will continue those discussions. So watch this space," Commissioner Webb said.
Earlier the police put out a statement saying they were aware of the decision by the Mardi Gras board.
"While disappointed with this outcome, NSW Police will continue to work closely with the LGBTQIA+ community," a spokesperson said.
"And remain committed to working with organisers to provide a safe environment for all those participating in and supporting this Saturday's parade."
This story was originally published by the ABC.
