Mardi Gras Float Banned Over 'Pro-Genocide' Claim

Sydney's 48th Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade is set to proceed with hundreds of thousands of attendees, but a planned activist float has been excluded. Pride in Protest was banned after failing to comply with an organizer's demand to remove a social media post that characterized a Jewish float as 'pro-genocide'.

Organizers had given Pride in Protest until 5 pm on Friday to remove the posts, but the group did not respond, leading to their disqualification. The group stated they did not reply because the emails were sent during business hours. They plan to gather at Town Hall.

The parade's theme is 'Ecstatica,' focusing on euphoria as resistance. Over 10,000 marchers and 200 floats will participate, including corporate sponsors and emergency services. Enhanced security measures, including police with high-powered rifles, will be in place as a precaution.

For the first time, public transport services will operate on a 24-hour timetable to accommodate the event. Major road closures are in effect from Saturday afternoon until early Sunday morning. The traditional after-party has been canceled due to financial concerns and rising costs.