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Supporters of same-sex marriage celebrate the landmark decision, at a rally outside the Legislative Yuan in Taipei on May 17. Photo: Reuters
OpinionLetters

Letters | Taiwan has said yes, it’s now Hong Kong’s turn to make same-sex marriage legal

  • Hong Kong students say growing public support in the city for same-sex marriage shows the momentum for change in Asia should not stop with Taiwan
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Letters
Letters
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On Friday, Taiwan’s legislature voted to legalise same-sex marriage in a landmark decision, becoming the first jurisdiction in Asia to take this step towards greater social equality. Thousands of LGBT couples and gay rights supporters stood in front of the legislative building waiting for the result, erupting in ecstatic celebrations when the announcement was finally made.
This is encouraging news for Hong Kong. The LGBT community here hope that this can focus minds and rally support for change. They have also urged the government to follow Taiwan’s lead.

It is true that not everyone in Hong Kong supports same-sex marriage. Some people say each society has its unique social circumstances, and we cannot directly compare Taiwan’s new law to Hong Kong’s situation.

Cathay Pacific’s LGBT ad banned from Hong Kong airport and MTR
However, I think everyone has the right to choose whom they marry. And more people are agreeing with me: a survey last year showed that support for same-sex marriage has grown in Hong Kong. So I think it’s the right time for the government to push for change.

Currently, same-sex couples in Hong Kong have to get married in countries where it is legal, and their marriages are not recognised here.

Love is equal. We should not discriminate against the LGBT community.

Heibe Wong, Kwai Chung 

No free society should oppose gay marriage

I refer to news that same-sex marriage has been legalised in Taiwan and the call for Hong Kong to follow its lead (“Follow Taiwan’s lead on same-sex marriage? No, equality watchdog says”, May 18). I welcome the move by Taiwan, as people’s freedom to love whom they want will no longer be limited. It is a big step towards removing discrimination in society related to sexuality.

Also, the legislation shows that Asian societies which held fast to traditional and conservative attitudes in the past are changing how they see the LGBT community. This is very important for the development of a free and democratic society.

Vanessa Wong, Kwai Chung

LGBT supporters in Hong Kong hold a rally to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, on May 17. Photo: EPA

Sexual minorities deserve no less than the rest

Taiwan has legalised same-sex marriage. I was so glad to learn of this. Homosexuality is still a sensitive topic in many societies, especially Asian ones, where LGBT couples suffer a lot of discrimination and hostility. However, they should not be treated badly just because of their sexual orientation. They are full-fledged members of our society.

The passing of the law on same-sex marriage in Taiwan is a great step forward and encouragement for affirmative action elsewhere. Gay couples in Taiwan can now be protected by the law and they do not need to be afraid any more.

As an international city, Hong Kong, too, should extend such protection to its sexual minorities. It has a lot to learn from Taiwan.

Venus Woo, Kwai Chung

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