LGBTQ+ marriage in Thailand
Whilst Thai society is generally accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, same-sex unions haven’t been legalised and many are still waiting for the green light.
So, many LGBTQ+ couples perform ceremonial marriages in the Kingdom to bind and showcase their love for one another, for instance these two love birds, Mr. Smile and Mr. Bas who were wedded on 3rd April 2021.
In addition to legal hoops, members of the LGBTQ+ population also have to face loved ones in opposition of their choices, like Mr. Smile and his grandfather.
More about LGBTQ+ inclusion in Thailand:
- Thai Government wants to make a safe space for LGBT+ children
- I’m a Thai LGBTQ+ member & not in favour of the same-sex partnership bill
- It’s 2021 & I’m tired of getting misgendered
Thai families supports LGBTQ+ marriage
The grooms held a small wedding ceremony at their home and their close friends and family members attended their special day.
One special guest included Mr. Smile’s grandfather, whose appearance brought tears of joy to the groom’s eyes, reported Kapook.
Mr. Smile’s grandfather raised him since he was a child, but their relationship became rocky as his grandfather didn’t accept his sexual orientation due to generational differences – the grandparent apparently criticised the groom a lot.
So, seeing his grandfather at his wedding as well as receiving his blessing made the day that much more special for Mr. Smile.
LGBTQ+ wedding received 1.5K likes
As per Thai tradition, the grooms were presented with dowry gifts like an iPhone, golden amulets and cash.
Even those who weren’t physically in attendance continued to celebrate the union: their love story received 1.5K likes on Facebook as posted by Suriya Koedsang aka ‘Mr. Smile’ himself.
Translation: Even though we’re not a hetereosexual couple, I’ve never asked anyone to accept me, I still don’t appreciate the fact that people come and judge me. You can have an opinion but not harass and bully others. No matter what I am, I’m still human.
Netizens also show their support.
Screenshot: สุริยา เกิดแสง
Translation: Hope your love is eternal. Don’t care about others.
Screenshot: สุริยา เกิดแสง
Equality and inclusiveness for all
The world is becoming a lot more inclusive than before, and we solve a lot of social problems by changing ourselves for the better. It’s always important to make an effort to understand where each person is coming from.
Wholesome LGBTQ+ stories:
- Thai Man Gets Engaged To High School BF, Happy Mom Shares Importance Of Family Acceptance
- LGBT Couple Gets Married In Traditional Thai Ceremony, Proving Love Has No Gender
Cover images adapted from: สุริยา เกิดแสง (Left), สุริยา เกิดแสง (Right)
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