(Source: Reuters)

More than 180,000 people celebrated LGBTQ+ equality and diversity in Taipei at East Asia’s largest Pride march, joined by Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and the reigning queen of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Nymphia Wind.

Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage in 2019, a first in Asia and is a bastion of tolerance and liberalism in a region where the rights of sexual minorities are often suppressed or banned.

The streets of central Taipei were packed for the 22nd annual parade.

Taiwanese Nymphia, whose Drag Race victory in April electrified the island, appeared in an outfit inspired by medieval armor with a shoulder cape featuring a rainbow flag.

“I just have to come back every year for the parade. » she said, describing her armored look as representing gay rights advocacy.

Hsiao led the ruling Democratic Progressive Party delegation, marching behind a banner reading “Be yourself” and stopping from time to time to dance and wave to the crowd.

“I’m proud of you and I’m proud of Taiwan” she said before leaving.

President Lai Ching-te, who last year while running for president marched for Pride as the highest-ranking government official ever to do so, released a video message of support on social networks, while declaring that he could not participate in person due to prior appointments and for security reasons.

“The government will continue to work hard to put gender equality into practice so that everyone in this country of Taiwan can embrace inclusion and not have to fear what others think. » he said.

Organizers estimate the number of participants at more than 180,000.

Taiwan’s openness on LGBTQ+ issues stands in stark contrast to that of its giant neighbor China, which claims the democratically governed island as its own territory despite strong objections from the Taipei government.

Although same-sex relationships are not illegal in China, same-sex marriage is not recognized and the government has cracked down on activists and media representations of LGBTQ+ people.