From arrest to acceptance, Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras grew out of a terrible night in our history. A planned street “festival” calling for an end to discrimination against homosexuals in employment and housing, and and end to police harassment and the repeal of all anti-homosexual laws saw 2,000 people step out from the Oxford Street bars and clubs responded to the call “Out of the bars and into the streets!”. Although the organisers had obtained permission, this was revoked, and the parade was broken up by the police.

Ian Muchamore recounts that night 40 years ago, with audio from 78ers Ken, Diane, Michael and Robin.

This segment aired on The Informer on JOY 94.9 on 1st March 2018.