TikTok Ban Sparks Discussion on LGBTQ+ Rights in China

There's a bit more drama in TikTok land these days, especially if you're one among its 150 million American fans. The buzz? TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, might be off-limits in America come January 19. President Biden's recently signed Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversaries Act has everyone on edge, spurred by fears over security risks and Chinese influence. Naturally, LGBTQ+ creators are feeling this uncertainty intensely since TikTok's become a cherished space where their voices resonate and connect.

As everyone waits with baited breath, many users are jumping ship, testing their luck on another app from China called Xiaohongshu, or "RedNote" in English, which has quickly shot up Apple App Store's Top Free Apps list. But it's not all smooth sailing: LGBTQ+ folks are understandably wary, given China doesn't have a stellar record on queer rights.

Is LGBTQ+ content safe on RedNote?

So, here's a dilemma. Some people worry that RedNote might not play nice with LGBTQ+ content. A TikTok user told The Advocate that her post about "trans plight" got axed on RedNote. Yet, others haven't run face-first in censorship. A Reddit user shared that there's a thriving LGBTQ+ presence—but, word on Reddit street? Criticizing China's government isn't a wise move.

Adding a dash more humor, some TikTok fans have joked about packing up and settling in China just so they can keep their TikTok fix. But joking aside, it's essential first grasping China's stance on LGBTQ+ rights before considering such bold moves.

What's it really like being LGBTQ+ in China?

Sure, China decriminalized same-sex sexual activity back in 1997 and dropped homosexuality from its mental disorders list by 2001. But let me tell ya, folks there still face quite a few hurdles. Same-sex marriage? Still a no-go. Even efforts like Sun Wenlin and Hu Mingliang's 2016 court case couldn't shake things up.

In 2017, China did introduce a system where people can appoint guardians over personal affairs. It's something same-sex couples have used, but it's hardly comparable with marriage rights.

There's more: LGBTQ+ folks continue facing discrimination across workplaces, schools, and healthcare. A Beijing Normal University survey in 2019 revealed that 85% had battled depression, and 40% considered suicide.

And let's not forget LGBTQ+ groups face many hurdles in China. In 2020, Shanghai Pride, China's longest-standing LGBTQ+ event, was canceled, reportedly under local authority pressure. Then, in 2021, a leading advocacy group shut down amid fears it might be government-bullied out too.

Also in 2021, WeChat reportedly purged LGBTQ+ accounts, and Chinese authorities tightened their grip on media, banning "sissy" men on TV and video games showing same-sex relationships. Under President Xi Jinping, things got conservatively charged.

By 2024, it was clear things weren't loosening any time soon—the popular lesbian bar Roxie in Shanghai closed, spotlighting China's increasingly controlled social scene.

Thinking ahead: other alternatives

Sure, things aren't perfect in America, but if you're thinking about relocating because a social media platform's been banned, think again. The idea might be funny, but China's not exactly a beacon when it comes right down it. For TikTok's LGBTQ+ users considering life after a possible ban, maybe check out other platforms and communities that value LGBTQ+ voices and stand firm on rights. These spaces just might offer what you're searching for.