Taipei 101 chairman Janet Chia has called for a large rainbow flag to fly at the landmark on Taiwan Pride day, turning a gesture of support into a striking public moment. The request followed broadcaster Kevin Tsai's comments about standing by LGBTQ+ people despite political backlash, and has prompted an outpouring of thanks and debate online.

Key takeaways

  • A bold request: Chia asked to borrow a rainbow flag measuring 360 by 240 centimetres.
  • Pride-day timing: The proposed display coincides with Taiwan's 24th annual Pride parade.
  • A show of support: Chia praised Tsai after he spoke about the personal cost of his public stance.
  • Online reaction: Supporters welcomed the idea, while some questioned whether it was appropriate for a public landmark.

A rainbow flag could bring Taipei 101 into the Pride-day spotlight

A giant rainbow flag against Taipei 101's familiar skyline would be hard to miss. The landmark's chairman, Janet Chia, asked on social media for a flag measuring 360 by 240 centimetres, saying she hoped to display it on 31 October, the day of Taiwan's 24th Pride parade.

Chia also indicated that Taipei 101 would be lit up for the occasion. Her post quickly drew emotional messages from supporters, many thanking her for making solidarity visible rather than leaving it as a private sentiment.

Kevin Tsai's comments set the moment in motion

The request followed a recent interview in which broadcaster Kevin Tsai discussed his appearances at campaign events involving politician Puma Shen and Taipei mayor Chiang Wan-an. Tsai said his presence at Shen's campaign headquarters was connected to a raid on a gay bar in Taipei's Ximending district earlier in October.

He also said he didn't regret his choices, despite the possibility of paying a heavy personal price. Chia praised Tsai's words, describing him as a person whose depth and convictions had made a strong impression on her.

Why one public gesture carries extra weight

The proposed flag display has become part of a wider conversation about who feels able to show support for LGBTQ+ people in public. For many commenters, the combination of a prominent landmark and Pride-day timing made Chia's request feel unusually visible and heartfelt.

Others raised questions about political neutrality and the role of public institutions. That tension is part of the story: gestures of inclusion can be warmly received, while still prompting debate about what a landmark should represent.

What to know about the Pride-day display

The flag's stated dimensions are 360 by 240 centimetres, and Chia said she was looking for someone who could provide it. Her post described the plan, but a request to borrow a flag isn't the same as confirmation that it was installed.

Taiwan Pride's official information page is the place to check parade details, while Taipei 101's own channels are the clearest source for updates about the building's lighting or any display. For visitors, it's worth checking before making a special trip. Big landmarks are impressive in person, but even the brightest skyline can't confirm what's happening on a particular night.

A landmark can make support feel tangible

The response to Chia's post suggests that visibility matters to many people, especially when public debate can make support feel risky. A rainbow flag on Taipei 101 would turn that message into something people could see across the city.

Whether the plan went ahead as proposed, the exchange has already brought Pride, public expression and personal conviction into the same conversation. Sometimes, a single flag can say a great deal.

A small gesture can still make a big skyline feel more welcoming.

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