Gays marriage

• Question:
• This article suggests that gays and lesbians in Taiwan are generally afraid to “come out” to their family. The article goes on to suggest that most families operate under a “don’t-ask, don’t-tell” policy. In other words, most families just don’t want to know if they have a gay son, daughter, brother, sister, and so on. In your opinion, do you think this is correct? This article is from 2004. Do you think the situation is any different now?

• Answer :

• I don’t think it is correct. Gays and lesbians are not criminals. They have their right to look for their love. “don’t-ask, don’t-tell” policy usually hurt and smear their reputation. This treatment is rooted in the callous attitude of Chinese culture towards homosexuality. Many people snub the gays and lesbians due to they regard homosexuality as sick. But it is wrong.
• In 2004, the government of President Chen Shui-bian included a provision allowing gay couples to "found a family and adopt children" in a broader human rights law that also calls for the gradual abolition of capital punishment. I think the provision to strengthen Taiwan's democratic and human rights. This legislation is helpful for gays and lesbians. Unfortunately, I don’t see any process in law and policy about this social movement of improving gays and lesbians treatment by current President Ma’s administration. So I think the situation is not different now.