Taiwan just made history by becoming the first country in Asia to legalise gay marriage. 66 out of 93 legislators voted in favour of guaranteeing same-sex couples the right to tie the knot.
Hundreds of gay rights supporters who gathered in the rain outside the parliament building in the capital of Taipei reacted in joy and tearful embrace at the result. Famous Taiwanese celebrities such as A-mei (張惠妹) and Jolin Tsai (蔡依林) also took to social media to share their happiness.
A-mei, who has been an advocate for LGBT rights, wrote, “I cried when I saw the news… You can be proud of yourself after such a long journey! My dearest heroes want to have a complete rainbow after the early morning rain.” The post was accompanied with a large rainbow flag taken during a concert.
Similarly, Jolin posted a photo of an actual rainbow taken from a mountain top. “Congratulations!! Everyone deserves happiness!” the pop star captioned the scenic snapshot.
S.H.E. members – Hebe Tien (田馥甄) and Ella Chen (陳嘉樺) – who have been allies of the queer community also voiced their support. “Love is, knowing how to love yourself, knowing how to love others, everything that has love can love others. A day worth recording. I love you,” Hebe said.
“I hope everyone can understand and respect each other without discrimination, misunderstandings, or hatred. Although it is raining today, there will be a rainbow after the rain. Keep striving everyone,” wrote Ella.
Instead of altering its existing definition of marriage in civil law, Taiwan has enact a special law for same-sex marriage.
Source: BBC.
