‘We’re not freaks’: police raid sparks concern for Taiwan’s LGBT-friendly image
The rounding up of customers at a gay bar weeks before Saturday’s Pride festival has some questioning the island’s progressive image
TL;DR
- Police rounded up 51 customers at Commander D, a gay bar in Taipei, on October 3rd.
- The bar owner was arrested on suspicion of profiting from facilitating indecent acts.
- Videos showed police using excessive force and mocking a disabled customer.
- The raid has led to criticism from rights groups and concerns about Taiwan's LGBTQ+ friendly image.
- Taipei mayor Chiang Wan-an apologized, and six police officers were disciplined.
- Similar scrutiny has been faced by other gay venues in Taiwan.