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TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Despite rainy weather, about 120,000 people marched through the streets of Taipei Saturday as the 20th annual Pride event celebrated the LGBTQ community.
The Taiwan Pride parade began in 2003 when just 700 participants gathered in a park in central Taipei — most of them wearing masks to avoid stigma.
Taiwan has since become the first place in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage in 2019. It is regarded as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly places in Asia.
“When I was in high school, we also had gays in our school. We were not discriminated against. Everyone knew that,” said Chen, an 18-year-old college student. “We don’t have to worry too much. We’re just ourselves.”
But other LGBTQ people still face challenges. Tommy Wong said he felt estranged from his partner’s family.
“His parents haven’t fully accepted me yet. One day, I really wish I could visit his parents during the Lunar New Year, get to know them, and hope they can accept us as we are now,” said Huang, 35, the owner of a publishing company.
Although Taiwan recognizes national same-sex marriages, it does not allow foreigners to legalize same-sex marriages.
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