【新聞稿】2023 第五屆台灣跨性別遊行開走，走出一 段跨性別的路

▲2022年第四屆跨性別遊行，3000人不畏風雨上街支持跨性別權益

The 5th Taiwan Trans March will kick off in the vibrant streets of Ximending on the evening of 27 October 2023. Organized by the Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association, this parade has been a monumental celebration for the past five years. In 2022, a remarkable assembly of up to 3,000 participants graced the occasion. As we look ahead to this year, we anticipate an even more substantial turnout to rally behind the transgender community.

The theme of the march is “Walk Tall, Walk Proud: Your Transgender Path Awaits!” As we celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Taiwan Trans March, it is essential to remember that despite the progress, transgender individuals in Taiwan still encounter hurdles in their everyday lives. From unwarranted scrutiny when using public restrooms to discrimination in job applications and the persistent struggle with being misgendered, these challenges persist. The gender binarism binary gender system continues to pressure the transgender community. Hotline is committed to enhancing the social conditions for transgender individuals through dedicated support, education, and advocacy.

Besides, notable corporate support this year underscores the significance of LGBTQ+-friendly workplaces. “Pride is essential for us as a means of expressing our passion for gaming,” noted Blizzard Entertainment Taiwan. In a groundbreaking collaboration, companies that have long championed the LGBTQ+ community, such as Activision, Blizzard, and King, joined forces with us for the first time. The remarkable games crafted by these partners offer not only millions of players worldwide an epic entertainment experience but also create a world teeming with joy and unity, allowing individuals to explore their true selves.

Furthermore, Mr. Peng, the general manager of Gilead Sciences Taiwan Branch, a long-standing LGBTQ+ ally, expresses, “To learn more about the transgender community, we’ve invited volunteers of Hotline to our office to share the challenges faced by the community. Gilead recognizes the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace environment where all individuals are not only understood but also respected. I am thrilled to lead colleagues from Taiwan and worldwide in this parade, demonstrating our unwavering support through tangible actions.”

In addition to allies from various sectors, Hotline has also invited transgender individuals to share their stories. Xin-Yu, a Hotline volunteer, will report on the endeavors of the Hotline’s southern office on trans advocacy. Volunteers Deven and Alice will talk about their experiences as transgender individuals in the workplace and healthcare settings. Besides, publicly came-out transgender actor Miya will also share their story. Meanwhile, we have both domestic and international support from different fields. Weng Li-shu, a teacher from Lu Jiang Elementary School in New Taipei City, will discuss how to address transgender issues on campus and raise public awareness. Comrades from Taiwan Alliance to Promote Civil Partnership Rights (TAPCPR), Taiwan Non-Binary Queer Sluts, Solange Dekker, the Miss International Queen 2023 from the Netherlands, as well as Enkhmaa Enkhbold, the executive director of the Mongolian LGBTQ+ Center, will take the stage to voice their support for transgender rights.

As for the performance after the march, Fei Li Bing will open a draw queen show, followed by Xiao-Ai Huang, last year’s performer, demonstrating their dedication to the transgender community. On top of that, Rachel, an openly came-out transgender musician, and the P!SCOe band, will give the closing act, uplifting the transgender community in Taiwan.

Furthermore, there will be several after-parties. Attendees of the “Trans Empowerment Party” held by the gay bar Locker Room will enjoy a half-off discount on admission with any Trans March merchandise. Driftwood Ximending (Taihu Ximen) will have fun activities with the transgender theme and offer transgender-style cocktails. The T&N Party (Trans and Non-Binary Party) will be held at Daybreak Coffee. Grey Area will host The Q Point, a party with performances. These events will provide diverse opportunities for supporters to continue connecting with each other and celebrating after the march.

The Hotline Association invites transgender individuals and allies to participate in the march. With support and encouragement from all walks of life, we can collectively speak out for the transgender community. We’re inviting anyone who has ever felt ill at ease with the gender binary system and everyone who wants to be themselves. On the evening of 27 October, join the march in the way you feel most comfortable! We are all members of this brilliant society. Let’s take a walk on which everyone can be at ease and at peace to break gender frameworks together, making this world more diverse and beautiful.

On the road to equality, let’s walk together in freedom!

Date: 27 October 2023 (Friday)
Venue: The Red House Square in Ximending (Near the Ximen MRT Station, Exit 1) Media Contact Point: The media tent on the left-hand side of the stage
Media Contacts: Wei-Jun Chen (0962-076-876)

6:30 PM - March Assembly
6:35 PM - First Half of the Program
6:50 PM - Opening Performance by Drag Queen Fei Li Bing 7:30 PM - March Begins
8:30 PM - March returns to the Stage
8:40 PM - Second Half of the Program
9:00 PM - Performance by Xiao-Ai Huang
9:10 PM - Performance by P!SCO Band