Taiwan could become the first place in Asia to legalize gay marriage. Last year the constitutional court declared that same-sex couples had the right to legally marry.
Now, the public will get a chance to vote on whether that becomes law.
Although Taiwan’s constitutional court ruled to legalize gay marriage a year ago, same-sex couples like Chen and Lee are waiting for the legal system to catch up.
Taiwan’s same-sex ruling was the first of its kind in Asia. It set a two-year deadline to turn the ruling into law.
But conservative religious groups have called for referendums to keep that from happening. LGBT activists have responded with a referendum bid of their own.
On Saturday, November 24, the public will decide in a vote either for or against same-sex marriage.
Taiwan has earned a reputation as Asia’s gay capital. It has a vibrant gay scene, including an annual pride parade that’s one of the biggest in the region.
But experts say socially conservative attitudes here still hold sway, putting same-sex couples under pressure.
Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen vowed to push for marriage equality when she came to power in 2016.
Now she’s under fire from rights activists who accuse her of backing away from her promises.
Image Credit: National Review
