Matcha Phornin, an activist involved in drafting the bill, is among the couples planning to tie the knot as soon as possible.
“Definitely, we plan to get married in November,” she told the Telegraph on Tuesday, who watched the senate proceedings alongside her long-term partner and daughter at home in the northern city of Chiang Mai.
“This means so much, because we have the recognition of our rights and acceptance in our society. The law would never pass if society doesn’t accept us,” Ms Phornin said earlier this year, when the lower house passed the bill. Then, she was “crying in parliament” as the legislation crossed one of the final hurdles.
“[I hope this will] make a better life for the next generation,” she said. We are fighting to celebrate love – but this also has big impacts on every part of life.”
Tong Thanayut, 32, a popular Thai actor heavily involved in the campaign to legalise same-sex marriage, told the Telegraph the bill’s passage is critical because it means “future generations will grow up in a society that allows them to live freely with pride”.
“Of course, we are celebrating with the team and all the activists who have fought for more than 20 years. Many people are shedding tears of joy in relief.
“There’s still much work to be done, including advocating for sex workers’ rights and other issues, but now it is time to celebrate marriage equality together with everyone.
“It is a benefit for the entire nation and future generations. Using the marriage equality law for myself is something to be decided in the future, and it will be wonderful if that day comes. In truth, it is a basic right that every citizen deserves,” Tong added.
