Asier Carazo.
The MFA DE&I Council would like to see an industry where everyone can thrive, feel heard, supported, and safe to do their best work. Let’s meet the Changers who are sharing their own lived experiences to inspire us all to change for the better.
Every February, Sydney lights up with brilliant colours, infectious energy, and the undeniable sparkle of Mardi Gras. While many see it simply as a party, for me Mardi Gras is so much more – a vibrant reminder that the fight for equality is far from over.
While sceptics have argued that Mardi Gras was losing its relevance because the LGBTQI⁺ community had already “won”, this is far from true. As I’ve noted in previous reflections, not everyone in our community experiences the same level of acceptance or safety. Being a white gay man in Australia can be far less challenging than navigating life as a transgender person. These nuanced realities lie at the heart of why Mardi Gras remains so crucial.
Across the globe, we’ve seen how easily hard-won rights can be erased. Recent shifts in the US serve as a sobering example—within weeks, policies under the Trump administration pushed Transgender, Queer, and Intersex communities back into the shadows. It’s a stark reminder that no matter how fiercely we fight for progress, rights can be dismantled just as quickly.
But here at home, we have the chance to do things differently. And in our industry, we hold more power than we sometimes acknowledge – not just to sell products, but to shape culture and influence societal narratives. Whether you work agency side or client side, this Mardi Gras presents a unique opportunity to harness that influence and drive meaningful change.
Here’s how:
Agency folk: champion allyship and advocacy
Whether you work in media, creative or PR, you’re in the business of storytelling – and every story has the potential either to reinforce stereotypes or to challenge them.
- Be the guide: Take a proactive stance by leading your clients to embrace initiatives that support the full spectrum of the LGBTQI⁺ community. It isn’t enough to acknowledge the community once a year; your strategies should reflect year-round allyship.
- Educate and empower: Use your influence to educate teams about the varied experiences within the LGBTQI⁺ community. Ensure your outputs celebrate diversity in all its forms, highlighting voices that are too often sidelined.
- Challenge the status quo: Push your clients to go beyond token gestures. True advocacy means integrating inclusion into the very fabric of brand messaging and media choices. Let your work serve as both a celebration and a call to action.
Marketers: stand firm in your activism
On the brand side, there’s often a delicate balance between commercial interests and social responsibility. However, now more than ever, being an activist brand isn’t a risk – it’s an imperative.
- Commit to initiatives: Continue supporting programs and initiatives that uplift marginalised voices. When big tech companies are scaling back on their DE&I efforts, your brand can fill that void and set a new standard.
- Be bold and transparent: Don’t shy away from taking a stand. Consumers still value authenticity and integrity.
- Lead by example: Use your platform to spotlight real stories and issues within the community.
I’ve always been struck by how welcoming and diverse Australia is. Living here for over seven years now, I’ve felt the warmth of a society that not only accepts but celebrates difference – a powerful example of what true inclusivity can achieve.
But as we celebrate, we must stay vigilant. Mardi Gras isn’t just about past victories; it’s a call to action. Progress has been made, but there’s still more to do.
This Mardi Gras, whether you’re LGBTQI⁺ or an ally, look beyond the party. Reflect on our strides, recognise the battles ahead, and commit to ensuring everyone is seen, heard, and safe.
Asier Carazo is Chief Strategy Officer at Atomic 212
To broaden your understanding of DE&I, complete the SBS Core Inclusion course – Australia’s leading online DE&I training course – available for free to MFA member employees.
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