TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — The Taiwanese capital held its annual LGBT pride parade Sunday, making it one of the few places in the world to proceed with such an event in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
The parade in Taipei has drawn tens of thousands of people in the past, but participant numbers Sunday were reduced by both virus concerns and heavy rain. Taiwan’s Central News Agency said more than 1,000 attended.
Those who did take part said it was a testament to Taiwan’s ability to contain the pandemic and its commitment to rights for people of all sexual orientations.
Taiwan is the only place in Asia where same-sex marriage is legal, and its liberal political system has long promoted human rights, free speech and freedom of assembly.
American student Loren Couse, 28, said Taipei’s ability to hold the parade was “really impressive.”
“I think Taiwan has done a really good job so far, and I am really proud of living here, not only because it’s so open to people like myself, the gay community, but also because I think it’s such an example for the world and how to handle the pandemic so far,” Couse said.