PRIDE and LGBTQIA Advocacy in Laos: An Interview with Anan Bouapha
In continuing our recognition of LGBTQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual) History Month, I interviewed Anan Bouapha, a well-known advocate in the LGBTQIA community in Vientiane, Laos. Anan is part of an active and increasingly visible LGBTQIA community that continues to engage Lao society and international partners. As president of the nongovernmental organization Proud to Be Us Laos, Anan played an instrumental role in organizing the first large-scale LGBTQ+ Pride event at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane back in 2012. Born and raised in the capital of Vientiane, Anan continues his advocacy efforts throughout Laos and lectures about his work internationally. While currently based in Paris for graduate studies, Anan may struggle to find his favorite Lao dish of Mok Pa, but he is still able to talks about the current state of LGBTQIA affairs in Laos. Was there a particular moment that compelled you to get into LGBTQIA advocacy in Laos? We’ve been trying to partner with the government to help reduce HIV/AIDS infection among LGBTQI community members. We also want to reduce …
