Warning on Splitting Movement over Gaza War

Sydney's Gay Newspaper the Star-Observer reports that activists are reminded that, whatever the differing opinions within the LGBTQIA communities over the Israel-Gaza war, these should not split the queer community or spill over into violence.  The reminder comes after an incident at Melbourne's Midsumma event where a small group of Pro-Palestinian LGBT+ activists attacked the stall of the Australian Labor Party's LGBTQIA group.  “Midsumma is deeply disappointed by the disturbing activity exhibited by a small group of individuals at the Midsumma Carnival held (on Sunday). Our primary concern is always the safety and well-being of our attendees, performers, and stallholders, and we are actively addressing these incidents with the utmost urgency, and have spoken to the stalls that were affected to check on their welfare following the incidents,” Festival CEO Karen Bryant said.    “Whilst we support members of our communities always having a voice on the views that are important to them, and we recognise the diversity of opinions and views that exist in our diverse communities, we would hope that these can be expressed without any form of exclusion or aggression towards other parts of our LGBTQIA+ communities.”   Victoria Police confirmed to Star Observer about the attempted disruption. “Victoria Police are aware of a disruption to various stalls at a festival in Alexandra Gardens just before midday (on Sunday),” a police spokesperson said in a statement provided to Star Observer.   “No offences were detected and no reports were made to police. As a matter of course, police will review CCTV and investigate any offences that may arise,” the police spokesperson said, adding, “No one was injured during the incident.”