An estimated 50,000 on Saturday took to the streets in Taipei – the largest turnout in its 10-year history – to show their support for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, calling on the government to recognise same-sex marriage equality and diversity in partnership, according to the Taipei Times. Parade organisers say about 3,000 people from 23 countries were at the parade, and estimated the total number to be at about 65,000.
The parade, which is the largest of its kind in Asia, was split into two groups with different routes after departing Ketagalan Boulevard, in the heart of Taipei City. Both group converged back at Ketagalan Boulevard at about 4:30pm, where they had a tribute to three late advocates of LGBT rights — entertainer Da Bing (大炳), activist Chiang Chia-wen (江嘉雯) and stage actor Liu Ching-hung (劉敬弘).
Hong Kong pop star Gigi Leung (梁詠琪) and singer Anthony Wong (黃天耀) – who came out publicly this year – showed up to express their support for LGBT rights.
“Love is gender-blind, everyone is entitled to the right to enjoy happiness,” Leung said was quoted as saying in the Taipei Times. “I can feel the joy of marriage after I got married last year, and I hope that everyone can enjoy the same degree of happiness as I do, regardless of their sexual orientation.”
Group hugs at Ketagalan Boulevard.
The two rainbow flags led the crowds on two routes.
Jia-Wei Chi, who petitioned same-sex marriage to the Legislative Yuan
in 1986, waves the rainbow flag.
Lesbian couple calling for same-sex marriage equality.
Hong Kong pop star Gigi Leung (梁詠琪, left) and singer Anthony Wong (黃天耀) –
who came out publicly this year – showed up to express their support for LGBT rights.
Thai attendees at the parade.
The Christian alliance shows their support for LGBT rights.
Attendees from Hong Kong and China.
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let's not give up....
jp from Canada
In answer to @dmojojojo, I estimated there were less than 100 guys in speedos and perhaps just a few more in colourful costumes. The overwhelming majority of guys and girls were in jeans or shorts and T shirts. What was particularly impressive was the vast number of young people there, including several University groups.
Let's remember that this Parade was not just for fun: it had a serious social message, and I am told this was covered by a lot of the Taiwan media. Taipei does a fantastic job with its annual Pride Parades. I really wonder how the organisers make it so successful! Congratulations to all involved!
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