Supporting LGBTQ+ People During Lunar New Year

ShanghaiPRIDE, a Chinese LGBTQ+ NGO, talks to myGwork about some of the challenges that queer people face in China during Lunar New Year and how to support those who are still in the closet.

Image credit: Shanghai Pride

Could you tell me a bit about your organization?

ShanghaiPRIDE, which began in 2009, is an annual festival that celebrates diversity. This festival is organized entirely by volunteers with the support of individuals, media, businesses, and foreign consulates. We aim to raise awareness and visibility, and to promote self-acceptance and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community through sports, cultural, educational, and social activities. We also encourage the community and partners to support LGBTQ+-related projects and initiatives. ShanghaiPRIDE promotes cross-cultural exchange locally as well as with LGBTQ+ festivals across the globe.

What does Lunar New Year mean to you?

Lunar New Year is one of the main festivals celebrated by our community in China. In Chinese culture, it is the season for celebrations of success and new beginnings, reunions for friends and families, sharing best wishes and joy, and paying respects to ancestors.

What is your favorite Lunar New Year tradition?

Every Chinese New Year, I enjoy reunions and visiting friends and relatives whom I hardly meet in person. It is always exciting and fruitful to get connected again and enjoy traditional Lunar New Year food together.

Can you share some of the main challenges the LGBTQ+ community may face during the Lunar New Year?

Many members of the LGBTQ+ community are worried and afraid to return to their parents’ during Lunar New Year as this is the “window” where parents and relatives will ask about their relationships. To come out or not to come out? Parents might take this opportunity to set up meetings with potential partners [of the opposite sex]. Many prefer traveling during the holidays or staying away from their families to avoid unnecessary situations and fights. Also, LGBTQ+ couples that are not out and accepted by their families might need to go back to their hometowns separately and be unable to really enjoy the festivities together.

How could we better support LGBTQ+ individuals during Lunar New Year, especially those that may be estranged from their families?

There are LGBTQ+ organizations that organize Lunar New Year meetups for LGBTQ+ individuals who decide not to go back to their hometowns or are estranged from their families. Also, counselling and psychological support might be needed to manage familial expectations and difficult conversations.

What is your advice for someone who may still be in the closet and spending Lunar New Year with their family?

Coming out is a personal journey and your own choice, no matter when, and it is for you to decide when you are ready. Spending time with family is a precious opportunity as we grow up. I hope that everyone continues to shower your family with love and continue to create your support system to help you. It is OK to be in the closet during Lunar New Year and hopefully one day you will be able to come out and celebrate your identity with your loved ones.

Wishing everyone a prosperous and healthy Lunar New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai!