ASIA - Aug 14, 2003
With signs in their hands proclaiming messages such as "Accept our existence," Nepal's gays and lesbians celebrated the festival of Gai Jatra with their 2nd annual pride march. Homosexuals, transgenders, and their friends seemed to be having a great time and onlookers watching the procession appreciated the message of the vibrant spectacle.Beautifully painted faces, artistic costume, plus the graceful manners of nearly 200 marchers grabbed everyone's attention according to the The Kathmandu Post, saying that the marchers' consideration for each other and the strong unity among the gays was touching. The scene was completely unique and highly interesting for the public. It was not only a show of strength by gays within the Kathmandu Valley alone. Jhapa, Dharan, Janakpur, Butwal, Rupandehi and many other districts had enthusiastic representatives joining the event. Indeed, the marchers included gay Japanese, Australians, Koreans and other foreigners, displaying international unity on the streets of Kathmandu. The proud procession seemed to win the hearts and minds of the people. |
