Embracing Diversity Unveiling the Significance of Pride

A Month of Empowerment and Acceptance Amidst Individual Journeys

ISSARA KUNAKORNPHAN
Life at Finema
3 min readJul 4, 2023

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As Pride Month concludes, Finema’s unwavering commitment to equality, diversity, and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community remains strong. Through the Stay True, Stay You held this month, featuring engaging discussions, creative activities like tote bag painting, and a spirited charity auction, we fostered an inclusive environment that celebrated love, acceptance, and equality here in Finema.

Event Highlights

LGBTQIA+ Rights in Thailand

This segment of the event focused on the background of LGBTQIA+ rights in the country where we looked at the history and present state of the community. We discussed the appropriate terminologies to be used to refer to people from the community and delved into the significant milestones for advancements for the community. This included the first sexual reassignment surgery performed in the country in 1975, to having the first pride month celebration held in the country in 2006, and more. Through this segment, we were able to deepen our understanding of LGBTQIA+ rights in the country.

Discussion on Topics LGBTQIA+ Rights in Thailand in Finema Pride Month

History of LGBTQIA+ Rights Within Asia

Besides looking at the advancement in the movement for LGBTQIA+ rights here in Thailand, we also delved into the historical context of LGBTQIA+ movements in Asia where we gained valuable insights into unique experiences and inspiring progress across different regions. We looked at the brief history of Taiwan and how the eventually became the first Asian country to legalise same sex marriage in 2019. After this sharing, thoughtful discussions then facilitated about what people can do to also promote gender equality in Thailand. This included exploring strategies to achieve gender equality, challenging traditional stereotypes, and identifying gaps in current LGBTQIA+ rights and policies. Looking at Taiwan’s success at legalising same-sex marriage, we hope that Thailand will eventually follow suite soon.

Tote Bag Painting and Charity Auction

The event’s main activity was the tote bag painting and auction session where employees were split into groups and unleashed their creativity to decorate the bags based around the events theme. The bags were decorated with vibrant colours, inspiring messages and symbolic representations which served as powerful statements of support, unity, and love for the LGBTQIA+ community. Afterwards, the decorated bags were auctioned off where all the proceeds from the auction would be donated to a reputable LGBTQIA+ charity organisation.

Group photo of the preple at Finema

At the end of the event, employees were able to walk away with a more detailed understanding and support of the LGBTQIA+ community as seen from the fervent support during the activities and thoughtful discussions around the topic. Here at Finema, we carry the spirit of empowerment and acceptance forward, continuing to champion equality and celebrate all our employees’ journey.

If you are curious to learn more about us, visit https://finema.co.

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