Vandalism Mars Midsumma Festival's Closing Event in Fitzroy
Graffiti extensively covered shopfronts and marquees on Fitzroy's Gertrude Street on Saturday night, impacting preparations for the closing event of Melbourne's LGBTQ+ Midsumma Festival. Police were notified at 11:50 PM after reports of individuals vandalizing structures intended for the upcoming Pride Street Party. Upon the arrival of authorities, the group reportedly fled towards Napier Street through Atherton Gardens.
Details of the Vandalism
Beyond Gertrude Street, additional graffiti was discovered on walls along Smith Street, affecting marquees, businesses, and residences. Authorities confirmed that one individual involved was observed carrying a machete. The messages spray-painted and posted featured slogans such as "No Pride on Stolen Land," "No Police at Pride," and "Boycott Midsumma."
Community Responds to Damage
Early Sunday morning, a significant clean-up operation was launched by residents, local businesses, and Midsumma staff and volunteers. Felicity McIntosh, Deputy CEO of Midsumma Festival, highlighted the urgent need for this "substantial clean-up" ahead of the day's event.
McIntosh characterized the graffiti as "vandalism that caused distress, financial impact, and unnecessary harm" to local supporters. She emphasized that the Pride Street Party is a crucial trading day for many local businesses and affirmed Midsumma's commitment to dialogue, stating that "targeting homes and businesses does not facilitate such discussions."
Background Context and Past Incidents
This incident is not isolated. According to the Star Observer, similar "Boycott Midsumma" graffiti was reported on LGBTQ+ venues in Fitzroy and Collingwood in January of the previous year, though it remains undetermined if the same individuals are responsible for the recent vandalism.
In a related development, Victoria Police officers did not participate in the previous year's Midsumma Pride March in St Kilda, adhering to organizer policies restricting formal work uniforms. More recently, during the February 2024 parade, approximately 50 protesters confronted police, engaging in paint-throwing and chanting.
The current Pride Street Party is the fifth iteration of the event, marking the conclusion of the three-week Midsumma Festival.
Investigation Ongoing
A police spokeswoman confirmed that investigations into the vandalism are ongoing. The City of Yarra, the local council, has been contacted for further comment.