The Inner West Council recently held an event naming a prominent balcony at the new Marrickville Library for inner west LGBTIQ+ and feminist trailblazer, Ida Leeson. 

Ida Leeson was appointed as the first female librarian at the Mitchell Library in 1932. Her appointment was controversial and groundbreaking: People questioned the appropriateness of appointing a woman to such a senior position in the State's library system. 

Ida lived as an openly gay woman, sharing her life with her partner of 50 years, Florence Birch, in their inner-west home. 

People like Ida fought for recognition and inclusion in every aspect of life, living their lives unapologetically and true to who they were.

I congratulate the Inner West Rainbow Community and Inner West Council on their recognition of Ida Leeson and on their ongoing support of the LGBTIQ+ communities across the inner west. 

Ida and remarkable people like the 78ers paved the way for those celebrating this Saturday's Mardi Gras this weekend. 

Oxford Street will again come alive with glitter and colour, allowing us to celebrate the LGBTQI+ community. Happy Mardi Gras to everybody.