IN EXCELLENT FRIDAY NEWS, Taiwan‘s parliament just legalised same-sex marriage, a huge first and victory for Asia. And, today also happens to be International Day Against Homophobia.
Despite some seriously shitty weather, thousands braved the cold to show their support. People donned fabulous / extra as hell outfits, waved rainbow flags, colourful umbrellas, and tonnes of posters.
BREAKING: Legislators just passed article 4, which means #Taiwan just legalized same-sex marriage and will be implemented on May 24th#First in #Asia#LGBT #LoveWins pic.twitter.com/FDjWNBAxru
— Taiwan Equality Campaign 彩虹平權大平台 (@equallovetw) May 17, 2019
The vote, which passed 66 to 27, will allow same-sex couples to form “exclusive permanent unions” and a second clause will let couples apply for a “marriage registration” with government agencies. Couples will be entitled to key marriage rights on matters including taxation, insurance, and child custody. However, adoption rights are still unclear.
The bill will come into effect after Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen signs it into law.
Ahead of the vote, Tsai tweeted: “Good morning #Taiwan. Today, we have a chance to make history and show the world that progressive values can take root in an East Asian society.
Today, we can show the world that #LoveWins.”
Good morning #Taiwan. Today, we have a chance to make history & show the world that progressive values can take root in an East Asian society.
Today, we can show the world that #LoveWins. pic.twitter.com/PCPZCTi87M
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) May 17, 2019
The vote comes two years after the island’s constitutional court ruled in favour of same-sex marriage. Parliament was given a two-year deadline – May 24 – to revise the laws.
The Taiwan Alliance to Promote Civil Partnership Rights told media the vote meant Taiwan is “successfully striding toward a new page of history!”
After the vote was called, Tsai tweeted: “On May 17th, 2019 in #Taiwan, #LoveWon. We took a big step towards true equality, and made Taiwan a better country.”
Happy, HAPPY, Friday.
Meanwhile, the 2019 Australian Federal Election is tomorrow (Saturday, 18 May). Happy, HAPPY, voting folks.
