"We're both excited and hesitant"

As Pride Month begins on Monday we spoke with David Klarnett, president of "Dayenu" - a Sydney-based group for the Jewish LGBTQ+ community and its allies - about the community feelings, the new arrangements for Mardi Gras and tips for celebrating Pride

The Dayenu fleet in Mardi Gras 2025, celebrating their 25th anniversary Credit: Toby Evans

Pride Month, which once symbolised mainly joy for the Jewish LGBTQI+ community in Australia, has taken a different turn over the past three years.

Following October 7, the rise in antisemitism, and more recently the Bondi Beach terror attack, feelings towards Pride Month have become more complex.

The colourful community is facing increasing challenges in celebrating Pride as they once did.

David shared with SBS Hebrew his thoughts on Mardi Gras, relationships with other LGBTQI+ groups, and what is planned for Pride this year.