Taiwan president congratulates Taiwanese drag queen for winning race

On Saturday, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen extended her congratulations to Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind for her victory on RuPaul’s Drag Race, marking her as the first East Asian winner of the show, according to ‘Reuters’. Tsai and her Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), known for advocating LGBTQ+ rights, have established Taiwan as a stronghold of liberal values, notably legalising same-sex marriage in 2019, a first in Asia.

“Congratulations to you, Nymphia Wind, for being so accomplished in the difficult art form of drag, and for being the first Taiwanese to take the stage and win on RuPaul's Drag Race,” Tsai expressed on Instagram in English. “Right after being crowned queen, you said 'Taiwan, this is for you.' Taiwan thanks you for living fearlessly,” she continued.

Image Credit: Canva

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, celebrates its liberal stance with East Asia's largest Pride parade every October. Last year, Vice President Lai Ching-te, who was elected as Taiwan’s next president in January, participated in the Pride march, making him the highest-ranking government official to ever attend the event.

Before her win, Nymphia Wind was a prominent figure on Taiwan’s vibrant drag scene, known for her elaborate banana-themed outfits, performances in Taiwanese temples, and photo shoots at wet markets, all while dressed as a banana.

As the 16th season of Drag Race concluded, stars from the show have also performed in Taiwan, highlighting its welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ artists. This open stance sharply contrasts with the policies of China, Taiwan's much larger neighbour which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Though same-sex relations aren't illegal in China, same-sex marriage is forbidden, and the government has intensified its crackdown on LGBTQ+ activists and the portrayal of LGBTQ+ individuals in the media.

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