Gender in Japan - Homosexualiy in Osaka The Kansai Rainbow Parade - 2008

Many people dressed up for the parade, and surprisingly had no reluctance whatsoever to getting their picture taken. However at the end of the parade there was a specifically marked section for people who did not want their pictures taken. This is a feature that is unheard of in American pride parades. Being outed as a homosexual is definitely something that many people still very afraid of in Japan.


A few quick facts about homosexuality in Japan.

• In 2007 the Kansai Rainbow parade had more than 1300 participants. Compare to my hometown of Salt Lake City had an estimated 50,000 participants. For reference the population of Salt Lake City and the surrounding valley is approximately 2,150,00. Whereas the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto population is 18,643,915. In other words, while relatively conservative Salt Lake City had over 2% of the population attend the event, Kansai had less than .001% in attendance. (These figures are based on my own, unscientific calculations.)

• There are no laws that prohibit homosexual behavior. There are also no laws in place to protect against discrimination.

• Until recently Japan did not allow it's citizens same sex marriages in countries where it was legal, but recently that has changed. (see article)

• Japan has a huge market for homosexually themed romance comic books, both pornographic and non- pornographic. However, the biggest demographic for the gay (guy on guy) literature is with young women. (However, there is apparently a very complex genre structure that carefully distinguishes between the various styles, content and target audiences.) For more info: Boys' Love," Yaoi, and Art Education: Issues of Power and Pedagogy

More photos:

A volunteer roams the parade route asking for donations.

A homo-erotic cosplay spin on Princess Mononoke.

The Parade procession, Crossing Famous Dotonbori.

The flag in the foreground is from one of many GLBT circles. These circles provide chances for GLBT people to have a chance to socialize and find support from people of similar age and interest. They are also a good alternative to bars and saunas for finding a relationship.

The sign reads "After the rain, comes the rainbow."
Gay rights have a very long way to go in Japan, however Japan may have a bright, rainbow colored future for gay couples after all.

For great photos from the parade, please visit my Kansai Rainbow Parade 2008 photoset at Flickr.