One year later, in an open letter, Phang wrote, “Pride has grown to a scale that was probably too visible, likely making an impact, and thus catching too much (unwanted) attention.” The notice sparked speculations about the real cause. In 2020, Shanghai Pride announced an indefinite hiatus, without providing much explanation. The restrictions and pressures have only escalated in recent years. However, even this “sporting” event was quickly noticed by the government, with organizers being asked to explain the purpose of the activity. As one organizer explained in an interview, the outdoor “Pride Run” was an exploration of possible methods in raising LGBTQ public visibility, since it was impossible to have a parade. Most of Shanghai Pride’s events were indoor, distinguishing it from pride events in places such as Hong Kong and Taipei, which normally culminate in a street parade. “Our volunteers often develop imaginative ideas, but sometimes we may need to slow down our pace in China,” Phang said. Phang recalled one time nixing an idea to wrap an entire building in rainbow colors, believing the act “might attract too much attention.” This sensitive environment meant there was always a ceiling on Shanghai Pride’s growth. ![]() In an interview with CNN, Charlene mentioned how the team always prepared plans B and C when organizing events, since it was common for authorities to pressure venues to cancel. Censorship and restrictions on public events were obstacles from the very beginning. Organizers also needed to understand the hidden and ambiguous rules under a constantly shifting political environment. Phang recalled the preparation often started a half-year in advance. This meant more logistical work for a team that fully depended on volunteers: finding venues, seeking sponsorships, cultivating relationships with both the government and foreign consulates. The volunteer team also became increasingly Chinese. He oversaw the expansion of the festival, especially after 2015, when the events grew in size and themes became more diversified. Phang began as a volunteer before moving his way up to leading organizer. One of his best memories was when he hosted the closing party of Shanghai Pride, standing in front of thousands of people and listening to them sing “happy birthday” to him. “I searched Shanghai gay events on Google - the website could still be accessed in China back then - and Shanghai Pride popped up after the names of a few gay bars.”Īs his own birthday is in June, Phang has many fond memories of celebrating with his friends at Pride events. Phang recalled how he first found out about the event in 2010 when he moved from Malaysia to Shanghai to attend university. ![]() ![]() Her founding group, consisting of queer expats, initiated the festival in 2009 as a way to organize bite-sized art and entertainment activities during Pride Month.įor the first few years, the working language was primarily English. “We didn’t mean to resist anything, but just wanted to show people who we are,” Charlene, a co-founder, said in a 2018 interview.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |