Same-Sex Wedding in Vietnamese

In a monumental celebration of love, Vietnamese women’s professional football player, Tran Thi Thu, recently tied the knot with her girlfriend, Nguyen Thi Thuong, marking a historic moment for LGBTQ+ representation in the country. This remarkable event comes just five months after the Vietnamese women’s football team’s groundbreaking debut in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

A Joyous Occasion in Ho Chi Minh City

The joyous union took place in Ho Chi Minh City, where teammates and well-wishers gathered to show their support for the pioneering couple. Tran Thi Thu expressed her gratitude on Facebook, extending thanks to family, friends, and colleagues for their warm wishes and participation in the celebration.

A Milestone Amid Legal Constraints

Despite the festive atmosphere, it’s important to note that same-sex marriages are not legally recognized in Vietnam, and LGBTQ+ couples lack legal protections. The country only decriminalized same-sex marriages in 2015, allowing symbolic unions but falling short of full legal recognition. Notably, Taiwan stands as the sole Asian nation with legalized same-sex marriage, while Nepal has taken steps in that direction by acknowledging at least one such union.

Positive Shifts in Public Opinion

While legal barriers persist, Vietnam has witnessed positive shifts in public opinion. According to a November poll by Pew Research Center, 65% of Vietnamese people support same-sex marriage, making it the Southeast Asian nation with the highest level of endorsement. This changing attitude reflects broader societal acceptance and inclusivity.

Thu’s Stellar Career and Personal Triumph

Tran Thi Thu, a standout defender, has played a pivotal role in the success of the Ho Chi Minh City Women’s Football Club, contributing to eight national titles throughout her illustrious career. Joining the national team in 2017, Thu clinched gold at the 31st and 32nd South East Asian Games, solidifying her status as a football icon.

Challenges and Progress in LGBTQ+ Rights

While same-sex marriage remains unacknowledged legally, Vietnam’s health ministry declared in 2022 that being LGBTQ+ is “not an illness.” The statement emphasized that individuals in the LGBTQ+ community cannot and should not be subjected to conversion therapy. This policy aligns with a growing awareness of LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity in the country.

In this landmark celebration of love and commitment, Tran Thi Thu and Nguyen Thi Thuong’s wedding serves as both a personal triumph and a symbol of progress in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Vietnam.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The advocate.com