Johnnie Walker will open the doors to Walk Proud @ Kinselas on February 17 until March 5 to acknowledge and celebrate all people who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The inclusive space will be open to all and headlined by performers across all LGBTQIA+ identities during Sydney WorldPride 2023.
The opening is part of Johnnie Walker’s aim to celebrate and promote a more equal understanding of all LGBTQIA+ identities through education, storytelling and performances from proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Walk Proud @ Kinselas will host over 40 events throughout its residence including acts from critically acclaimed non-binary musician G Flip, Queer Folk-Pop artist Alex The Astronaut, Australian Pop Band Cub Sport and Gomeroi woman, Trans and First Nations advocate and solicitor DJ Crescendoll. By partnering with trailblazers across the LGBTQIA+ community, Johnnie Walker aims to recognise and empower progress for every LGBTQIA+ identity and inspire people to Keep Walking Proudly towards a more inclusive future.
G Flip will perform a free DJ set at Walk Proud @ Kinselas and share their story as part of their partnership with Johnnie Walker.
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“Working alongside some of my closest mates to spread a message of acceptance and positivity has been awesome. It shows the progress being made to uplift queer experiences and celebrate everyone equally. Cheers to that!” said G Flip.
“Johnnie Walker has historically championed progress and celebrated those who have the tenacity, courage and resilience to ‘Keep Walking’. Today we’re partnering with pioneers and catalysts of change in the LGBTQIA+ community, supporting and elevating those who lead us all to a more inclusive and accepting society,” said Jodi McLeod, Johnnie Walker Marketing Manager.
“As a Sydney WorldPride partner, we wanted to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone, and to celebrate the full spectrum of the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether you identify with one or multiple identities within the LGBTQIA+ community or are an ally, Walk Proud @ Kinselas is the place to celebrate with pride during this iconic event.”
Darlinghurst’s celebrated Kinselas venue will be revamped by inclusive Australian Fashion Label Double Rainbouu Founder, Mikey Nolan who has designed a bespoke mural that nods to the diverse identities that make up the LGBTQIA+ community. Johnnie Walker and Double Rainbouu have also teamed up to create an exclusive limited edition Keeping Walking Proudly merchandise, from which 100% of profits will be donated to Equality Australia.
No matter how you identify, Walk Proud @ Kinselas will act as a stage to amplify all voices as we Keep Walking towards a future where all are celebrated, recognised and accepted for who they are. Partners in the Johnnie Walker initiative include:
- G Flip
- Cub Sport
- Alex The Astronaut
- Sabrina Frederick
- Starley
- Victoria Anthony
- Caroline Elisabeth Cull
- Blume Kind
- MikeQ
- Lady Shaka
- DJ Crescendoll
- Boris
- Pavlova Bar
- Poof Doof
- Papi Juice
- GirlThing
- Seann Miley Moore
Further information, the complete line-up and tickets can be found here.