Today marks a historic day in Thailand as over a thousand LGBTQ+ couples are expected to celebrate their love by officially tying the knot. This comes after the groundbreaking legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand, positioning the country as a leader in queer rights in Asia. Thailand now stands proudly as one of the few countries in the region to recognize and support equal marriage rights.
Last June, Thailand made international headlines by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize equal marriage. The new law, which redefines marriage as a union between "two individuals" rather than "a man and a woman," grants LGBTQ+ couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. This includes the ability to adopt children, share tax benefits, and make critical medical decisions for incapacitated partners.
Record-Breaking Registration
On this momentous day, Bangkok Pride has announced that an impressive 1,448 LGBTQ+ couples are expected to register their marriages. This number not only surpasses the previous record set by Brazil in 2014 for the largest LGBTQ+ marriage registration but also symbolically resonates with section 1448 of the Thai Civil and Commercial Code. This section previously restricted marriage to being "between a man and a woman," highlighting the significance of this historic shift.
The excitement is palpable throughout Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, where hundreds of couples are gathering to celebrate their love. Various locations across the city have become popular sites for registration. Notably, the Bang Rak district, known as the "District of Love," and the Bang Sue district, the "District of Honesty," are favored by many couples. In contrast, districts such as Bang Chak, dubbed the "District of Goodbyes," and Bang Phlat, the "District of Separation," see less marital activity for obvious reasons.
Celebrations Across the City
In the heart of Bangkok, at the bustling Siam Paragon shopping center, around 180 couples are participating in a special Bangkok Pride event. This vibrant celebration is one of many taking place throughout the city, as couples from all walks of life come together to affirm their love and commitment.
Prominent Thai actors Apiwat Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo Panatkool are among the notable couples formalizing their union today. Having held an unofficial ceremony two weeks prior, the couple was eager to complete the "legal bit" following the official legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand. They shared their joy on social media, with Panatkool posting a heartfelt message on Instagram: "First day of equal marriage in Thailand. We are now official and legal Husband and Husband."
A Message of Support and Unity
The national celebration has drawn support from across the country, including from former Thai prime minister Srettha Thavisin, known for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights during his time in office. Thavisin shared a congratulatory message on social media, emphasizing the significance of this achievement: "Equal marriage has truly become possible with the power of all."
The legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand is not just a victory for those directly affected, but also a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ communities throughout Asia and the world. It symbolizes progress and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance, inspiring other nations to consider similar reforms.
As Thailand celebrates this landmark event, the world watches with admiration and hope, acknowledging the courage and determination of those who have fought for marriage equality. Today’s celebrations are a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit in the pursuit of justice and equality for all.
With more than a thousand couples celebrating their unions today, Thailand has made a resounding statement that love knows no boundaries. The joy and optimism shared by these couples, their families, and allies serve as a powerful reminder that love, in all its forms, is to be cherished and celebrated.
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