Taiwanese Drag Queen Receives Praise from President for Reality Show Win
President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan commends Nymphia Wind, a Taiwanese drag queen, for making history as the first East Asian winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race. The victory is celebrated as a significant achievement for the LGBTQ+ community in Taiwan.
Taipei, Taiwan — Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen congratulated Taiwanese drag queen Nymphia Wind for winning “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” marking a historic moment as the first person from East Asia to achieve this honor.
Tsai and her ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have been strong supporters of LGBTQ+ rights, positioning Taiwan as a stronghold of liberal values. In 2019, Taiwan made history by legalizing same-sex marriage, a significant milestone for Asia.
Congratulations, Nymphia Wind, for your incredible success in the challenging world of drag. You have made history as the first Taiwanese contestant to win on 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' Tsai expressed on Instagram in English.
After being crowned queen, you beautifully declared, "Taiwan, this victory is dedicated to you." Thank you for being a fearless inspiration to Taiwan.
Nymphia Wind and other drag queens prepare for a performance in Taipei on October 21, 2023.
Nymphia Wind and other drag queens prepare for a performance in Taipei on October 21, 2023.
Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, holds the biggest Pride march in East Asia every October. Last year, Vice President Lai Ching-te participated in the Pride march, making history as the highest-ranking government leader to ever attend.
Nymphia Wind was already a popular artist in Taiwan's vibrant drag scene, known for her extravagant outfits inspired by bananas. She has performed at Taiwanese temples and even done photo shoots at wet markets dressed as a banana.
Stars from the popular show "Drag Race," which recently finished its 16th season, also visit Taiwan to showcase their talents on stage.
Nymphia Wind gears up for a show in Taipei on October 21, 2023.
Nymphia Wind gears up for a show in Taipei on October 21, 2023.
Ann Wang/Reuters
Taiwan’s openness on LGBTQ+ issues stands in marked contrast with its giant neighbor China, which claims the island as its own territory.
While same sex relations are not illegal in China, same sex marriage is, and the government has been cracking down on activists and depictions of LGBTQ+ people in the media.
Editor's P/S:
The triumph of Nymphia Wind on "RuPaul's Drag Race" is a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ representation in East Asia. It underscores Taiwan's unwavering commitment to liberal values and its status as a beacon of inclusivity in the region. President Tsai Ing-wen's enthusiastic congratulations reflect the government's unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community.
This historic victory serves as a reminder of the stark contrast between Taiwan's embrace of diversity and China's suppression of LGBTQ+ rights. Taiwan's legalization of same-sex marriage and its vibrant Pride march stand in stark contrast to China's restrictive policies. Nymphia Wind's success not only celebrates individual achievement but also highlights the importance of fighting for equality and visibility for all LGBTQ+ individuals.
