Bangkok Pride makes triumphant return after over a decade

After 16 years, the Pride parade returned to Bangkok, Thailand on June 5 bringing together LGBTQ+ community members and allies.

Gay couple kissing in front of Pride flag at Bangkok Pride.
Image: Instagram via @mike.ography

The streets of Bangkok were filled with LGBTQ+ community members and allies to celebrate the country’s first official Pride parade in 16 years.

Naruemit Pride 2022 – coming from the Thai term meaning ‘creation’ – was held on June 5 in the streets of the metropolitan area. Lots of planning was taken on by non-governmental groups, LGBTQ+ community members, government agencies, and allies to bring back the incredible celebration.

Organisers also received support from Bangkok’s newly elected Governor, Chadchart Sittiput, who marched the entire route to show solidarity and to interact with the community.

In addition to the typical Pride festivities like music, performances, protests, and beautiful fashion there was also a major focus on prominent issues in the LGBTQ+ community like equality and healthcare.

Performances during the 2022 Pride Parade in Bangkok

“I feel so happy. I feel glad and thankful to have this moment,” said drag queen Johnnie Phurikorn who was in attendance at the parade. He also added that Thailand has a lot to do if they want to make progress and show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Same-sex marriage is not yet legalised in Thailand. Earlier this year the parliament pushed back a proposal to make the change for equality.

 

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A post shared by NATTAWUT KACHIN (@mike.ography)

Overall, the event in Bangkok was an opportunity for people to come together and kick off an amazing Pride month focused on love and belonging. These celebrations help recognise the diversity found all throughout the world while also fighting for larger issues of equality.

Dublin plans to hold their 2022 Pride March and Parade on June 25. The event has already gained national coverage as their graphic designer created a Dublin Pride Ukrainian solidarity flag to show support for LGBTQ+ people in Ukraine.

© 2022 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.

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