TL;DR
- Almost 150,000 people marched in Taipei for Taiwan’s 23rd Pride
- Torrential rain didn’t stop flashy outfits and fierce energy
- Hong Kong visitors say LGBTQ rights have gone “backwards” at home
- Taiwan remains Asia’s most progressive LGBTQ rights leader
- China’s suppression stands in sharp contrast to Taiwan’s celebration
Rainbow Storm: Taiwan Pride Shows What Freedom Looks Like
Taipei wasn’t just wet this weekend — it was soaked in Pride, glitter, and unapologetic resilience. Nearly 150,000 marchers flooded the streets of Taiwan’s capital for the island’s 23rd annual Pride parade, showing that not even East Asia’s rainclouds can throw shade on queer joy.
Taiwan, the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2019, waltzed into Saturday’s event like a seasoned icon. Drag queens stomped the slick pavement in heels taller than political ambition, rainbow flags slapped in the wind like they owned the sky, and thousands roared their support for equality under umbrellas that somehow still matched the outfits.
While other parts of the region tighten the closet doors, Taiwan continues to swing them wide open — and flip off anyone who tries to shut them again.
Across the Sea, a Different Reality
Among the crowd was Eden Lau, 33, a personal trainer who traveled from Hong Kong to take part. He didn’t hide his heartbreak:
“In Hong Kong things for the LGBT community have gone backwards. I don’t know why but it’s really a shame,” he said.
He’s not wrong. Just one month ago, Hong Kong’s lawmakers killed a bill that would have granted even the smallest legal recognition for same-sex couples married abroad. LGBTQ groups slammed the move, saying the city is slipping further away from equality — and from its queer citizens.
Meanwhile in China, same-sex relations may not technically be illegal, but celebrating them is treated like a crime. Over the last few years, activists have been silenced, online communities dismantled, and LGBTQ representation slapped off screens. It’s a stark reminder of what oppression looks like when the closet is nailed shut.
A President With Pride Receipts
Even Taiwan’s leadership is proud to stand with the community. President Lai Ching-te, who marched in Pride during his run for office in 2023, sent a message loud and clear on Saturday.
“Everyone deserves respect and kindness… to live and shine on this land.”
Words matter — especially when backed by policy and visibility. Taiwan isn’t just tolerant — it is celebratory. It says to queer people: “You belong here.”
And for LGBTQ communities across Asia, that’s more than inspiring — it’s a lifeline.
Why This Matters for Queer Asia
For millions living under governments that deny their existence, Taiwan’s Pride parade is a rain-soaked beacon of possibility. It proves LGBTQ equality isn’t a Western import — it’s a human right that can thrive proudly in Asian culture.
When nearly 150,000 bodies demand visibility together, nobody can ignore them.
And the message they shouted into the storm?
We’re here, we’re queer, and Taiwan isn’t going backwards.