Kansai Pride 2019 was a beautiful demonstration of love and support by and for the rainbow community. Typhoon Hagibis resulted in Saturday event cancellations, but we still kicked off pride weekend in Kansai-style by devouring kushikatsu with friends and visiting Osaka’s popular rainbow bar, Frenz Frenzy. By Sunday morning of the Pride Parade, the typhoon had traveled north of Kansai. The weekend shifted from stormy and cautious to vibrant and positive. Everyone smiled, wished for each other’s safety, and welcomed each other. With the Pride Parade and a special mainstage performance by the Obachan’s serving as major highlights, Kansai Pride 2019 was a touching and memorable experience.
Yvonne Worden, ALT in Mie Prefecture, proudly hails from Seattle, WA, USA. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and worked in destination marketing and animal welfare before moving to Japan in April of 2019. On the weekends, she enjoys practicing yoga, exploring Japan, and editing videos. You can find her YouTube channel here.
