On International Day Against Homophobia, Vice President Hsiao Says 'Let Every Kind of Love Blossom Safely'

Taipei, May 17 (CNA) -- Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim stated that today is the 'International Day Against Homophobia' and also the 7th anniversary of the third reading passage of the same-sex marriage law. It also marks the 20th anniversary since she proposed Taiwan's first same-sex marriage bill. She said that true equality is achieved when it no longer needs to be specially emphasized but becomes a natural part of daily life. She hopes to let every kind of love blossom safely on this island. Vice President Hsiao shared the history of her promotion of the same-sex marriage bill on Facebook today. She mentioned that due to a lack of social understanding at the time, the bill could not be scheduled for review, but it slowly created countless ripples in Taiwanese society. She said that over the past 20 years, Taiwanese society has shown incredible resilience. Faced with divisions, it did not fall into an unsolvable zero-sum conflict but engaged in cross-generational and cross-group social dialogue with patience and goodwill. Because of this process, Taiwan has become a benchmark for equality in Asia today. However, she said, the legal system is only the foundation of equality; its true implementation exists in friendly workplace systems and is reflected in the tolerance of daily life. This reminds everyone that legal protection needs to be deepened by social culture, and the work for equality must continue. She believes that true equality is when equality no longer needs to be specially emphasized but becomes a natural part of daily life. Vice President Hsiao said, 'I am grateful to everyone who persisted and never gave up along the way. Because of everyone's bravery, Taiwan can be so diverse and free. In the future, we must continue to move forward with this pride. Let every kind of love blossom safely on this island; let everyone receive blessings and protection.' (Editor: Su Chih-tsung) 1150517