Bangkok Celebrates Its First One OF A Kind Pride March In 16 Years With Love And Hope

Pride month is celebrated in different parts of the world to recognise diversity and respect LGBTQAI individuals. Pride Marches are held in several parts of the world for acceptance and to encourage LGBTQIA individuals to carve their niche in this world with dignity and respect. Bangkok is one such place that has truly taken the notion seriously. The Thai capital held a one-of-a-kind celebratory march for the first time in almost 16 years Love comes in myriad ways and the true way to embrace it is by accepting and giving the right space.

Bangkok&rsquos Naruemit Pride 2022 event, was organised by NGOs promoting LGBTQAI rights and with the help of Governor of Bangkok Chadchart Sittiput. The street was filled with rainbow and transgender flags soaring high, slogans about same-sex marriage and sex workers&rsquo rights chanted and people supporting what they believe in and who they are.

Even though Thailand has a large number of LGBTQIA identities, the individuals are still prone to discrimination within the spaces of this conservative country. According to a report, in school, trans students are forced to dress as per their sex assigned at birth, cutting their hair to look appropriate according to their sex. Accompanied by bullying and always at the receiving end of unfair and unjust treatment which is prevalent among the teachers. All of this arises due to a lack of awareness.

Even in workplaces, prejudice seeps in. It takes away opportunities from the queer community. Even while filling out a healthcare form, they are left humiliated with bizarre questions.

The Thai parliament will soon vote on a bill which will provide legal rights to same-sex marriages. The journey has just begun and only fair and just results await.

When asked about the pride march, Johnnie Phurikorn, drag queen, believed that there is still more to do in Thailand with respect to supporting LGBTQAI individuals. In an interview, he said,&rdquo I feel so glad and thankful to have this moment.&rdquo Gun Punna, another drag queen, in an interview expressed,&rdquo I&rsquom so happy that I get to express my identity. I get to tell people we are not despicable in society.&rdquo

With the current supporting the LGBTQ community, a ray of hope is seen amongst the activists. Kath Khangpiboon, in an interview, said,&rdquo Chadchart will be the first [governor] who will support LGBT issues through his policies. It shows that if Thailand has a government that will be interested in social issues, and if we have a real democratic system &hellip we will develop a lot faster and easier.&rdquo

The process to combat inequality and give due recognition to the queer community has started. One of the ways to make LGBTQIA individuals safe and heard is through laws which recognise them. The journey is long but with motivation, support, love and acceptance, this is achievable too