Taiwan's LGBTQ+ groups called for more friendliness and understanding from society at the 19th edition of Taiwan LGBT Pride parade held online Saturday.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, this year's Taiwan LGBT Pride parade, themed "I (LOVE) Being Out," was held online for the first time in its 19 year history.
In place of the event's normal parade through downtown Taipei, five interactive online "stages" -- "Main Stage," "Party Float," "International Pride Issues," "Parade issues," and "Chat box" were livestreamed on the event's website.
The event included celebrity performances, drag queen shows, chat rooms and online shopping, according to organizer Taiwan Rainbow Civil Action Association (TWRCAA).
The livestream event across five stages on both YouTube and Facebook platforms tallied over 47,000 views, according to TWRCAA.
TWRCAA said that even though same-sex unions were legalized in Taiwan in 2019, LGBTQ+ people still face pressure in various aspects of life.
"Friendliness is not exclusive. For example, gender-neutral restrooms are not only used by transgender people. Friendliness means people can feel safe in that space, where they can be themselves," the organizer said.
"Understanding and respect are not merely slogans. Creating a friendly environment is everybody's responsibility. We need to make being 'friendly' part of our daily normal life," the organizer added.
Read the full article: https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202110300012
