Pride in Okinawa is an inclusive celebration of love, identity, and acceptance. In 1994, the U.S. military’s policy “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was adopted, which kept LGBTQ+ service members from being open about their identity. The rule was discriminatory and based on the false assumption that the presence of LGBTQ+ individuals in the military would undermine the ability of people to carry out their duties. Over the course of the policy’s life, thousands of brave service members were discharged simply for who they were and whom they loved. The policy was repealed in 2010, allowing LGBTQ+ people to serve openly in the armed forces.
Japan’s history, social norms, legal regulations, and religions have not been strongly against same-sex individuals, but same-sex marriage is not recognized in Japan. There are legal battles ensuing to fight for the freedom of marriage and equality under the law. Some prefectures offer “partnership certificates” to recognize the relationships of same-sex couples, but the fight for equal marriage in Japan is ongoing.1
Pride in Okinawa: Out in Oki
Out in Oki is a private organization for LGBTQ+ active-duty military members, military dependents, veterans, and local members of the community. Out in Oki hosts events to uplift and connect the community on the island, such as monthly game nights and brunch. The group also works closely with Kadena library to host story times and kids’ crafts.
Out in Oki’s biggest event is their annual Pride Drag Show. The group flies in Queens from various locations to perform with local Kings and Queens. This event also serves as a fundraiser to support the rest of the year’s events. Out in Oki is completely volunteer run.
Pride in Okinawa: Pink Dot Okinawa
Pink Dot is Okinawa’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride event full of fun and laughter. Pink Dot strives to guarantee rights of LGBTQ+ individuals to live with dignity and without fear of reprisal in Japan. Pink Dot is an event where people who want to create a society where everyone can live as they are and allies who support wear pink to gather, deepen their understanding, and share and express their thoughts. Pink Dot started in Singapore in 2009 and has now spread to all parts of the world. First introduced to Okinawa in 2013, Pink Dot has grown to attract thousands from the local community and from overseas.
Whether you are an ally or LGBTQ+ member, Pride in Okinawa offers a little something for everyone to enjoy!
1 https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/03/japan-groundbreaking-same-sex-marriage-rulings-a-long-awaited-victory-for-lgbti-rights/#:~:text=The%20Court%20still%20upheld%20the,marriage%2C%20such%20as%20automatic%20inheritance
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Kaily Watson is an Air Force spouse living in Okinawa with her husband and 4 cats. She is a criminal defense and insurance bad faith paralegal working remotely for two law firms based in Washington. Kaily is a master’s degree holder in legal studies and has a passion for advocacy.
The Watsons arrived to Okinawa in September 2023 and have been enjoying every second. Snorkeling, coffee tasting, and shopping are some of her favorite things to do.
