Phuket pushes for gender equality with vibrant pride events
Phuket's Pride Month started with volleyball, LGBTQ+ activities, and discussions
Phuket is taking bold steps towards inclusivity and gender equality with a major seminar and a packed Pride Month programme.
Yesterday, June 12, the Phuket Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office hosted a seminar titled Our World is Equal: Awareness, Awareness, Awareness of Gender Equality (Pride for All) at the Seabed Grand Hotel in Wichit.
Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai, who presided over the opening ceremony, was joined by key figures such as Sompit Srikhamhaeng, head of the Phuket Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office, as well as representatives from family networks, volunteer groups, government agencies, and the general public. A total of 70 participants gathered to discuss gender equality and diversity.
This initiative is part of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security’s commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5, which focuses on gender equality and empowering all individuals, regardless of gender, race, religion, or political beliefs.
Vice Governor Samawit emphasised that the project is crucial in raising awareness about these issues, as they are fundamental human rights that ensure everyone has equal freedoms, rights, and opportunities.
The seminar aimed to provide a deeper understanding of gender equality and diversity, which are key elements in building an inclusive society. This event was part of the wider Pride Month celebrations across Phuket, which began with a beach volleyball tournament in Patong and a series of LGBTQ+ activities, including a Pride Talk hosted by the Andaman Power Phuket Association. The discussion focused on rights, equality, and the need for legal and social reforms.
The Pride Parade on June 8, despite heavy rain, was a vibrant display of inclusivity, with Vice Governor Suwit praising it as a symbol of Phuket’s dedication to human rights. Organisers also announced that Phuket will host the InterPride Virtual General Meeting & World Conference in 2026, which is expected to strengthen the island’s position as a global LGBTQ+ destination. Tourism officials aim to attract over 4 million LGBTQ+ visitors annually, generating more than 65 million baht in revenue.
The celebrations continue in Phuket Town, where the PRIDE Bunny mascot, inspired by the Taoist rabbit god Tu Er Shen, stands tall, symbolising gender fluidity and protection for the LGBTQ+ community. The theme for this year’s Pride events, Wave of Generations, promotes unity across all ages, genders, and identities, reported The Phuket News.
The grand parade on June 28 will feature over 25 groups and culminate in mini-concerts along Phang Nga Road, with parking available for more than 800 participants.
This year’s Pride Month in Phuket is set to be the largest yet, with activities that will leave a lasting impact on the island’s inclusivity efforts.
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