Unity to be real must stand the severest strain without breaking. – Mahatma Gandhi
Two years ago, I remember going to Taiwan Pride, months removed from living in the states, not knowing anyone here. I remember thinking how great it was to go to a pride where it was still about supporting the community. Witnessing grassroots organizations trying to offer their support to individuals reminded me of Pride's in the states that I went to in the late 90's.
During this time, it was very much about people offering support. Unfortunately, pride has become so commercialized in the US. The last time I went to Pride it was all about promoting brands and these brands only tolerate us during pride month so they can make a profit. Lost in this commercialization is the reason why Pride started in the first place. In Taiwan, one becomes well aware of the history of the LGBTQ community in the country, and it is refreshing.
In the two years that have passed I'm in a different place in life. Having become more comfortable with my life in Taiwan, I have met more people, can navigate my way around the island and I'm in a job that is enjoyable. I invited some students to attend Pride with me so they could witness people being genuinely who they are with no limitations.
As we stepped out of the subway stop the sea of rainbow flags and vendors selling various items engulfed us. We began to navigate our way through the crowd. It was raining (which seems like a constant in Taipei) and all I could see above my head were umbrellas. It was a great feeling to be able to recognize businesses and organizations that I had no idea about years ago.
Walking through the crowd, I was reminded just how important pride is to this Taiwanese community as well as to Asia. While many more people are living their lives being who they are, there are also numerous individuals that don't feel comfortable here with their sexuality.
Even though Taiwan boasts that they are a country of acceptance, many people, especially older people, are still very conservative in their beliefs. Some of the young people I met will not tell their parents because of disappointment or shame on the family.
Due to limited support some people may have from family, events like this are vital to the LGBTQ community in Asia. The people you meet at events like this become your family and when times get tough those are the people you can turn to. The essence of why we come together and celebrate!
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