Taipei Pride brought politics and celebration into the same colourful frame as mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang joined the march in a rainbow T-shirt and handed out limited-edition ribbons. His message went beyond the parade: protecting LGBTQ+ rights means applying fair rules and building a welcoming environment every day, not just on one October afternoon.
Pride was colourful, but the message ran deeper
At Taipei Pride, Shen Po-yang appeared in a white T-shirt featuring a rainbow flag and two hugging characters, while handing out bright, wave-inspired ribbons with legislators Wu Pei-yi and Huang Jie. The cheerful details offered an easy photo moment, but Shen used the occasion to make a broader point about how equality should work in practice. (CNA)
He said he attends the parade every year. Last year, he came with his wife and children; this time, a packed schedule meant he couldn't stay long enough to meet up with them. Even so, he described joining the event with his campaign team and fellow legislators as a special experience. (CNA)
From equal treatment to a genuinely welcoming city
Shen framed LGBTQ+ rights in two parts. The first is protection: public institutions and law enforcement need consistent standards so that people's rights aren't infringed. The second is more active, involving policies and public spaces that help everyone feel welcome. (CNA)
That distinction matters because avoiding harm is only a starting point. Shen argued that policies should be reviewed through a gender-equality lens, helping decision-makers consider whether a proposal could reinforce barriers or instead create a fairer environment. (CNA)
Why this year's parade carried extra weight
The march took place amid renewed attention to LGBTQ+ rights after a police search of a gay bar in early October prompted controversy. Shen said the incident had contributed to greater participation this year, with marchers also carrying signs calling for change. (CNA)
A parade can make those concerns visible in a way that policy documents rarely do. But visibility is only part of the work: consistent procedures and thoughtful public policy are what can help turn a day of solidarity into lasting change. (CNA)
Pride should last beyond one day
The rainbow shirt and specially designed ribbons were created for the event, giving Shen's appearance a distinct, celebratory feel. He said Pride is a powerful way to express freedom and equality, while stressing that a friendly environment should be present throughout the year. (CNA)
That is a useful test for any city: not only whether people can gather and celebrate, but whether everyday services, decisions and public spaces treat them with dignity. For residents, that can mean paying attention to how local policies are reviewed, not just who appears on the parade route. (CNA)
A busy campaign stop with a personal note
Shen said his family might attend separately because his schedule could leave too little time for them to meet. The moment was a reminder that public appearances often run on tight timetables, even at an event built around community and connection. (CNA)
Still, his central message was clear: equality isn't a once-a-year gesture. A colourful parade can open the conversation, but the real measure is what happens on the other 364 days. (CNA)
It's worth celebrating Pride, and asking how its promise can be carried into everyday life.
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