Long before the Parliament of Bhutan passed a bill decriminalizing “same-sex” sexual activity in 2021, Queer people in Bhutan were already making significant contributions to the Himalayan Kingdom. LGBTQ+ activists and allies continue to push for additional measures to protect Queer rights, such as legal recognition of non-binary gender identities. However, in the three years since the decriminalization, there has been notable progress in LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in Bhutan. To honor the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, the spotlight is on Queer young changemakers who are making a difference in their respective fields, families, communities, country, and the world.
One of the trailblazing Bhutanese Queer individuals is Sangay Loday, a 21-year-old Queer youth consultant and theatrical performer from Thimphu. Sangay co-founded Queer Voices of Bhutan (QVOB), the country’s first Queer advocacy platform, in 2021 to provide inclusive programs for people with diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. Sangay’s work includes creating the “Out Of The Closet, No More Queer Cliches” art exhibition, which provided a safe and empowering space for Queer individuals to express themselves. Sangay’s personal experiences of coming out have shaped their advocacy work, aiming to inspire and create a safe environment for other Queer individuals to live authentically.
Regita Gurung, a 26-year-old gender advocate and One Young World Ambassador from Thimphu, is another inspiring Queer leader in Bhutan. With a background in marketing strategy and communications, Regita has used her platform to advance the national dialogue on gender equality, sexual consent, mental health, and Queer representation in film and modeling. Her involvement in pleasure activism and being the first woman to kiss another woman on screen in a Bhutanese movie has led to important conversations and increased visibility for Queer stories. Regita’s personal journey of overcoming trauma and breaking societal expectations has fueled her advocacy work for gender equality and Queer representation.
Dechen Wangdi, a 29-year-old storyteller and advocate from Thimphu, has been instrumental in raising awareness about social issues, particularly those affecting Queer individuals in Bhutan. Through his storytelling platform, Humans of Thimphu, Dechen has provided a space for underrepresented voices, including Queer individuals, to share their authentic experiences. His work with Queer Voices of Bhutan has contributed to initiatives like Queer Talks, which aim to openly discuss Queer issues and provide support for the community. Dechen’s personal journey as a Queer individual in Bhutan has driven his advocacy work to create a more inclusive and understanding society.
These three Queer individuals in Bhutan are just a few examples of the inspiring young leaders who are paving the way for Queer empowerment in the country. Through their advocacy, storytelling, and activism, Sangay, Regita, and Dechen are breaking societal barriers, challenging norms, and advocating for a more inclusive and diverse society. Their personal journeys of coming out, overcoming challenges, and pushing for change serve as a beacon of hope for other Queer individuals in Bhutan and beyond. As the LGBTQ+ movement continues to progress, these voices and stories are essential in driving positive change and creating a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
