Karl Zlotkowski

CO-CHAIR

In July 1978 Karl joined a demonstration that ended up in a melee outside Darlinghurst Police station. This was the moment when his sexual preference became political. But it wasn’t until 20 years later that he realized that he’d been part of a turning point in history.

In 1978 he was a cabaret promoter and performer. Since then, he has worked in the public service, for the shipping industry and as a senior manager with a global logistics operator. He has served on, supported and chaired committees at the local, national and international level.

In 2023 Karl helped plan and deliver the 78er contribution to Sydney WorldPride 2023 which coincided with the 45th anniversary of the first Mardi Gras in 1978. This contribution included production of a new publication of reminiscences and commentaries entitled Voices from 1978.

Now retired, Karl serves as a member of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 78ers Committee, an advisory group that co-ordinates the 78er presence in the Sydney Mardi Gras parade and at Fair Day.