Two years ago, when I started my monthly column Queer Eye where I write about LGBT issues and gender diversity, I was inspired by the arrival of the Thai version of the famous UK gay magazine Attitude, one of my favourite publications today.
As a journalist and a gay man, I have longed for mainstream media to offer space for LGBT issues to create a better understanding among society at large. I was fortunate enough to receive permission to start the column when I proposed the idea to my editor. When it started, I wasn't quite sure what feedback the column would generate. But one thing I was always sure of was that I wanted to see a change in society, a better understanding of the issues the LGBT community face, and I wanted the column to be a part of that.
Last month, I had the chance to cover the biggest step in the advancement of LGBT rights in Thailand so far when a group of human rights advocates and LGBT activists worked together to propose civil partnerships for same-sex couples. At that time, a host of places around the world were becoming active on the issue of same-sex marriage, including our brothers and sisters here in Thailand. It was a ground-breaking movement and provided a glimpse of hope that gay rights are on the rise.
Shortly after, I was contacted by the US embassy in Bangkok to have an exclusive interview with the director of the USAid agency. We would discuss gender diversity issues regarding an article I wrote about LGBT couples and the same-sex civil partnership proposal, which is in line with USAid's active promotion of inclusive development regarding gender. It was clear that the movement had gained attention internationally, and we received full understanding and support from this prestigious agency. Two months after the article, many things have changed for the better. At the time, I cited that there were nine US states which had legalised same-sex marriage. Today, three more states, Rhode Island, Delaware and Minnesota, have passed same-sex marriage laws. France, New Zealand and Uruguay have become the latest three countries to legalise same-sex marriage. In Thailand, the bill is set for review later this year. The signs are encouraging. A survey by National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) revealed that almost 88.49% of Thais have nothing against having gay friends or colleagues and 77.56% can accept their family members being gay.
However, when it comes to same-sex marriage, 52.96% agree with the bill. This might be lower, but it is still an impressive number. I once thought if I wanted to live out and proud, I must leave Thailand. But, day after day, I see changes and I see hope.
Like last week, when two gorgeous ladies made headlines for wearing beautiful traditional Thai dresses at their wedding in Bangkok, surrounded by members of both families who witnessed their love. Their brave move was meaningful to the LGBT community. Even though the bill has not yet passed, it was a beautiful and powerful statement that indicates the change coming, hopefully soon.
Yanapon Musiket writes about art and entertainment for Life and has a monthly column, Queer Eye, dedicated to gay rights and gender diversity.