A long-celebrated event brings the city to life with a vibrant display of inclusivity and diversity. The festival fills the streets with colours in a grand celebration of community and culture.

However, this year's festivities have been overshadowed by a controversy that has ignited a fiery debate across the nation, with some Australians calling for the defunding of the iconic parade.


At the heart of the dispute is a provocative photo featuring prominent First Nations drag queen Felicia Foxx, also known as Wendell French, who participated in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras adorned in traditional war paint, a red cloth, and red leather thigh-high boots.

The image that sparked the outrage shows Foxx holding a spear to the chest of another performer, who is leaning against a tree in a pose reminiscent of Jesus on the cross.


The photo, which was shared online by Foxx and others, has since become a lightning rod for criticism from various quarters, including Christian groups, First Nations people, and free-speech advocates.

The depiction has been labelled by some as a mockery of Christianity and Indigenous culture, raising questions about the boundaries of artistic expression and the role of taxpayer funding in supporting such events.

Charlie Bakhos, a Christian podcaster, took to social media to express his dismay, questioning whether the image constituted hate speech and calling for accountability from national leaders.


Cumberland Council councillor and former mayor Steve Christou echoed these sentiments, condemning the act as disrespectful to religious beliefs and questioning the government's financial support for the festival.

'It is disgraceful that people's religion is being openly mocked with an individual dressed like an Aboriginal stripper pretending to spear Jesus,' he said.

'Any other religion this would be considered a hate crime. No Religion deserves to be mocked.'

'Why is Government taxpayer money funding these festivals.'

The debate has also stirred discussions about the limits of free speech, with some defending the right to provocative expression as a cornerstone of a free society.

In contrast, others argue that such displays cross the line into offensiveness and should not be publicly funded.


Other Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ activists have defended Foxx's performance following the backlash.

Bebe Oliver, a First Nations author and director of Indigenous press Magabala Books, shared an essay highlighting the homophobia and transphobia evident in the criticism and praised Foxx for their authentic representation of Black Queer identity.

'It is drenched in homophobia and transphobia, transmisogny. It breaks my heart, and I've been crying about people's responses. As a Black Queer showing up as their authentic selves for Mardi Gras, it should be celebrated that they are showing us what is possible for us.'

The controversy has opened up a broader conversation about the intersection of culture, religion, and sexuality and how marginalised communities navigate their identities in the public sphere.

'Speak against Felicia and her expression and embodiment of self, and use culture and lore as your argument, and I will remove you from my circle regardless of who you are,' Mr Oliver wrote.

'If in your book Felicia is unable to be whole, then in the same text neither am I.'

'Keep your misguided silo views to yourself and let (people) be exactly who they are.'


As the debate rages on, it's clear that the Mardi Gras photo has touched a nerve in Australian society, challenging us to consider the complexities of cultural representation and the values we hold dear.

It's a reminder that deep-seated issues require our attention and understanding, even in celebration.
How do you feel about the use of provocative imagery in public festivals? Should taxpayer money be used to fund events that may offend certain groups? And how do we balance the right to free expression with respect for diverse beliefs and cultures? Join the conversation and let us know where you stand on this contentious issue.