April 22, 2024

“Tokyo Rainbow Pride 2024” under the theme of “Never give up until we win!” took place on April 21 in Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park. Japanese Communist Party Chair Tamura Tomoko delivered a speech to an audience who looks forward to a society in which everyone can live their own lives.

About 15,000 people took part in the Pride Parade. Other participants from the JCP included Upper House lawmakers Yamazoe Taku, Kira Yoshiko, and Ito Gaku.

Tamura in her speech said, “Immediately after the Rainbow Pride event last year, discussions on an LGBT bill began in the Diet. During the debate, politicians who referred to the patriarchal family system as ‘traditional’ exhibited an attitude of prejudice and discrimination toward transgender people.”

She added, “I know you all felt sad and angry, but you haven’t given up. Even though the law is inadequate, you are using it as a foundation to talk about the importance of education and training to promote understanding of LGBTQ people. You are also actively working on local governments to further enhance the public’s understanding. Cross-party Dietmembers, including myself, will work hard in solidarity with you all.”

On the issue of same-sex marriage, Tamura cited, “The Sapporo District Court on March 14 ruled the ban on same-sex marriage as ‘unconstitutional’.” She stated, “This is the issue that is related to the right to freedom of marriage, equality under the law, and fundamental human rights. The basic attitude of political parties and politicians toward this issue should be questioned.”

On the issue of a selective dual surname system, she said, “Traditional family advocates are opposed to separate surnames for married couples, evading the argument by saying that ‘diverse’ views exist. If that is the case, then all diverse families should be equally recognized under the law.”

“I will do my best in solidarity with you all to achieve a society in which I can be myself and you can be yourself.”

Past related articles:
> JCP Vice Chair Tamura at Rainbow Pride festival: I’ll work hard to realize marriage equality [April 24, 2023]
> High court: ban on same-sex marriage is against equality under the law [March 16, 2024]